Japan enforces new law to curb online gambling addiction

Japan has officially implemented sweeping new regulations aimed at combating gambling addiction and tightening oversight of online casino operations. The law, which took effect on Sept. 25 after being passed in June, bans online gambling advertisements and halts the launch of new online casino services. Under the new rules, operators must shut down services if ordered by police, while website administrators and social media platforms are required to remove gambling-related ads when instructed by regulators. Celebrity endorsements of gambling are also prohibited, reflecting concerns over the powerful influence of public figures on consumer behavior.