TITLE: United Kingdom's Advertising Standards Authority Upholds Ruling Against Skill on Net Ltd's Gecko Play Instagram Advertisement
BODY:
On 8 April 2026, the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) upheld a ruling against Skill on Net Ltd trading as Gecko Play for a paid Instagram advertisement that breached United Kingdom advertising codes on gambling.
The advertisement, posted on 1 February 2026, featured a stand-up comedian performing a routine comparing gambling to eating pistachios, stating: "Gambling is really like eating pistachios, if you get a good pistachio, you want another good one, if you get a bad one, you want a good one even more." The ad included an 18+ age restriction, GambleAware logo, and a responsible gambling message, but the ASA determined these disclaimers were insufficient to counteract the overall message.
Two complainants challenged whether the advertisement encouraged socially irresponsible gambling behaviour. The ASA concluded that the analogy trivialised repeated gambling participation and implied that individuals should continue gambling after losses to secure wins. The comedic presentation and audience laughter further undermined the seriousness with which gambling decisions should be treated. The ASA determined the advertisement breached the Advertising Codes and Permissions (CAP Code) Edition 12, specifically rules 16.1, 16.3, and 16.3.1 on gambling advertising, which require that marketing communications must not portray, condone, or encourage socially irresponsible gambling behaviour or behaviour that could lead to financial, social, or emotional harm.
Skill on Net Ltd accepted the breach, removed the advertisement, and updated its internal marketing guidance. The ASA directed the company to ensure future advertisements do not trivialise gambling or encourage frequent and repetitive participation, particularly following losses.