TotoGaming Could Have Its License Suspended in Romania Over “Betting Doctor” Ad

^{Billboard text: “Easy to use between appointments. Try it too!”}

TotoGaming has been fined RON 20,000 (around $4,440) in Romania over an advertising campaign featuring a character portrayed as a doctor. The penalty was announced by Romania’s National Gambling Office (ONJN).

The advertisement appeared on an outdoor billboard in the commune of Florești, Cluj County, and was also shared on social media. It showed a man wearing a white coat and stethoscope in a medical office, saying that he used the TotoGaming app during breaks between patient appointments. The ad also encouraged viewers to try the app themselves.

The ONJN said the campaign portrayed gambling as an ordinary activity that could be used to fill short breaks during the day.

The regulator also raised concerns about the use of a doctor in the advertisement.

According to the ONJN, the medical profession is associated with health, responsibility and trust, meaning that using a doctor in gambling advertising could create the impression that such behavior is normal and safe.

TotoGaming’s operator, TG Malta Limited, was fined, but the case may not end there.

The ONJN has also proposed suspending the company’s gambling license. The proposal will now be considered by the regulator’s Supervisory Committee.

Materials from the advertising campaign were also referred to Romania’s National Audiovisual Council for further review.

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