Betting ads probe: Google appears before ED, Meta skips

Google executives appeared at the Enforcement Directorate (ED) headquarters in Delhi this week in connection with a money‑laundering probe related to illegal online betting and gambling ads. Meta, by contrast, did not send any representative, attracting fresh criticism from authorities.

The ED had earlier summoned executives from both Google and Meta on July 21 to investigate whether their platforms facilitated the spread of betting apps linked to financial crimes. These platforms are accused of promoting apps disguised as skill‑based but allegedly operating as illegal gambling services, evading taxes and laundering money through hawala routes.

Meta and Google requested extra time to gather documents. When the original hearing passed without attendance, ED issued fresh summons for July 28. Only Google complied this time, appearing with documents; Meta remained a no‑show once again.

According to media reports, a senior Google executive provided documentation about ads placed by betting apps on its platforms. Google reasserted its commitment to keeping its services free of illegal gambling content, citing actions like removing over 247 million ads and suspending 2.9 million advertiser accounts in India last year. It said it is fully cooperating with ED’s investigation.

The investigation is being conducted under India’s Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). It is probing not only ad revenue and algorithmic placement mechanics, but the broader ecosystem—including betting app promoters, celebrity endorsers, and hawala intermediaries.

For media, advertising and marketing professionals operating in India, the case highlights growing regulatory scrutiny over digital ad inventory. Platforms are no longer just conduits—they are gatekeepers whose compliance lapses can amplify financial fraud. The outcome may force tighter oversight, more transparent ad policies and clearer accountability models.

As ED continues hearings, watchers will be looking for whether Meta eventually obliges. And how both companies shore up trust with advertisers, agencies and regulators alike.