Bangladesh Takes Legal Action Against ESPNcricinfo
Bangladesh’s National Cyber Security Agency has issued a legal notice to ESPNcricinfo over allegations of promoting online betting and failing to comply with local tax regulations. The platform has been given one week to remove prohibited content and provide financial disclosure or risk being blocked in the country.
Bangladesh Strengthens Oversight of Digital Advertising
The National Cyber Security Agency sent the notice on October 12 to ESPN Sports Media Group Ltd’s London office. It cited breaches of the Cyber Safety Ordinance 2025 and violations of tax regulations. Authorities argue that ESPNcricinfo displayed advertisements promoting online betting and gambling, which are strictly prohibited under Bangladeshi law. In their statement, officials clarified that any affiliate marketing, sponsored links, or paid promotions connected to gambling fall under the same ban.
Moreover, regulators accuse the company of generating ad revenue from Bangladeshi users without registering or paying the required taxes. As a result, the agency ordered ESPNcricinfo to remove all gambling-related advertisements and provide written confirmation of compliance within seven working days. It also requested full transparency regarding the company’s revenue streams linked to its Bangladeshi audience. If ESPNcricinfo fails to respond or cooperate, the government may block the site entirely. This move signals a stronger approach toward enforcing national digital laws.
Wider Consequences for Media and iGaming Sectors
This legal action marks a clear shift in how Bangladesh addresses the presence of gambling-related content online. By targeting a major international media platform, the government emphasizes that even global publishers must respect national restrictions. Furthermore, the decision reflects a growing trend in South Asia, where authorities are tightening oversight of digital advertising to protect local users from illegal gambling exposure.
For the iGaming industry, the situation highlights the growing complexity of operating in multiple jurisdictions. Companies now face pressure to ensure that all marketing and affiliate activities meet regional laws, regardless of where the headquarters are located. In addition, analysts believe this case could inspire other countries in the region to adopt similar enforcement strategies. As regulators continue to monitor the industry, platforms will need to strengthen internal controls, increase transparency, and adapt faster to evolving compliance requirements.