Crypto Advertising Regulations (2026 Guide): Google, Meta & Global Rules

Crypto advertising regulations worldwide have tightened, making it harder for brands to promote digital assets without triggering compliance issues. Each country enforces its own rules and disclosure requirements, and a single misstep can lead to rejected campaigns, blocked accounts, or significant financial penalties.

As crypto advertising in 2025 becomes more structured and performance-driven, regulatory compliance is central to how campaigns are planned and executed. This regulatory patchwork creates ongoing uncertainty for crypto advertisers. Platforms and governments regularly update their restrictions, forcing marketers to adapt quickly or risk having campaigns paused or penalized.

To help you stay compliant and plan campaigns with confidence, this guide breaks down crypto advertising regulations across major regions. It covers the US, EU, UK, UAE, Singapore, China, Canada, and leading ad platforms. You’ll learn what advertisers can run, what they must avoid, and how to navigate today’s constantly evolving advertising landscape.

United States (US) – Heavily Regulated Market

Active frameworks that regulate crypto advertising

Securities Act of 1933

Securities Exchange Act of 1934

The Howey Test

Commodity Exchange Act

Bank Secrecy Act / FinCEN rules

GENIUS Act (2025) for stablecoins

How crypto advertising is regulated in the US

Crypto advertising operates under existing financial regulations rather than a single, unified crypto-specific law. When a token qualifies as a security under the Howey Test, advertisers must follow the same rules that govern traditional investment products.

Ads promoting security-type tokens must follow strict disclosure requirements and avoid misleading claims. When a token qualifies as a commodity, the Commodity Exchange Act governs promotions tied to trading activity or derivatives.

The GENIUS Act adds further obligations for stablecoin issuers by requiring transparency around reserves and audits, and by requiring advertisers to accurately reflect those requirements in their ads.

The SEC oversees promotions related to securities, the CFTC regulates commodity-based promotions, and FinCEN enforces rules governing money-transmission activity associated with promotional offers.

Although no single “crypto advertising law” exists, advertisers must meet the same standards that apply to regulated financial companies when promoting digital assets.

Sanctions for non-compliance

For ads promoting a token treated as a security without proper disclosures or approvals, the SEC may impose fines of up to $250,000 per violation for individuals and up to $1,000,000 per violation for companies, along with orders to return profits from misleading promotions and limits on future crypto ads.

High-profile enforcement examples include Kim Kardashian, who paid $1.26 million, and Paul Pierce, who paid $1.4 million for undisclosed promotions.

For tokens treated as commodities, the CFTC may impose penalties of up to $1,000,000 per violation, or triple the financial gain, whichever is greater. Recent misleading marketing cases have resulted in penalties totaling more than $2.6 billion across multiple actions.

For stablecoins under the GENIUS Act, non-compliance with reserve or disclosure rules can trigger fines of up to $5,000,000 per violation, and regulators may suspend or revoke the issuer’s ability to operate or advertise.

Penalties vary by case, but fines commonly range from hundreds of thousands to several million dollars, along with potential bans on crypto advertising.

European Union (EU)

Active frameworks that regulate crypto advertising

Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCA)

Digital Services Act (DSA)

General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)

Unfair Commercial Practices Directive (UCPD) & national advertising rules

Audiovisual Media Services Directive (AVMSD)

How crypto advertising is regulated in the EU

Crypto advertising follows a harmonized framework across all 27 EU Member States, centered around MiCA. The regulation requires that any promotional communication targeting EU consumers is fair, clear, not misleading, and aligned with the information provided in the crypto-asset’s white paper. Ads must be clearly identifiable as advertising and include a statement explaining that no EU authority has approved the ad’s content.

National Competent Authorities (NCAs) enforce the rules, coordinated by ESMA and the EBA.

The DSA imposes transparency obligations on platforms and ad networks, requiring clear information about who funds an ad and limiting targeting practices that involve minors.

GDPR restricts how personal data can be used for targeting and requires a lawful basis for any processing.

Consumer protection laws under UCPD and audiovisual rules under AVMSD prohibit misleading claims, exaggerated promises, or any suggestion of guaranteed returns. Ads must include clear risk warnings about volatility and lack of investor protection.

Sanctions for non-compliance

EU regulators can impose serious penalties on advertisers and platforms that fail to follow crypto advertising laws.

Under MiCA, national competent authorities can suspend services, order the removal of management, or ban executives from operating. Fines vary by country, but many Member States issue penalties ranging from hundreds of thousands to several million euros, depending on the severity of the breach.

The Digital Services Act targets large platforms that ignore transparency or ad-targeting obligations. In these cases, regulators can impose fines of up to 6% of a company’s global annual turnover.

Data protection violations trigger GDPR enforcement. When advertisers misuse personal data for targeting, regulators can fine companies up to €20 million or 4% of global annual turnover, whichever is higher.

Consumer protection and national advertising laws also apply. Authorities may issue corrective orders or impose fines that commonly range from €100,000 to several million euros. In severe cases, some Member States can pursue criminal penalties.

Overall, crypto advertisers and platforms that fail to comply risk ad removals, disrupted operations, multi-million-euro fines, and restrictions on marketing activities across the EU.

United Kingdom (UK)

Active frameworks that regulate crypto advertising

Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (FSMA) – Financial Promotions Regime applied to crypto assets

Financial Promotion (Amendment) Order 2023

FCA Policy Statement PS23/6 “Financial Promotion Rules for Crypto Assets”

FCA Guidance FG23/3 on crypto asset financial promotions

How crypto advertising is regulated in the UK

Since October 2023, the UK has enforced one of the world’s strictest crypto advertising regimes. Any crypto promotion targeting UK consumers must come from an FCA-authorized firm or be approved by a crypto business registered under the Money Laundering Regulations.

Advertisers must ensure ads remain fair, clear, and not misleading, and they must include the mandatory warning: “Don’t invest unless you’re prepared to lose all the money you invest.”

Platforms must give first-time investors a 24-hour cooling-off period, and advertisers cannot offer incentives such as bonuses, referral rewards, or claims that suggest easy profits.

The rules apply to any communication capable of having an effect in the UK, which makes overseas advertisers responsible for compliance as well.

The FCA actively reviews online promotions, influencer campaigns, and platform ads, and it can order the immediate removal of any content that violates financial promotion rules.

Sanctions for non-compliance

Breaching Section 21 of the FSMA by issuing unauthorized or misleading crypto promotions is a criminal offence, punishable by up to 2 years’ imprisonment, an unlimited fine, or both.

The FCA may also issue cease-and-desist orders, add firms to its public warning list, and restrict or suspend their ability to market to UK consumers.

There is no fixed maximum fine, but enforcement actions often result in multi-million-pound penalties, particularly for unregistered overseas exchanges.

In recent cases (2024–2025), several platforms were ordered to stop all UK promotions within 24 hours and faced fines reaching several million pounds under broader misconduct powers.

Persistent violations may result in criminal prosecution, permanent advertising bans, and the loss of registration for UK-based crypto businesses.

United Arab Emirates (UAE)

Active frameworks that regulate crypto advertising

Federal-Decree Law No. 6 of 2025

Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA) Marketing Regulations 2024 (Dubai)

Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA) Virtual Assets Platform Operators Resolution No. 26 of 2023

Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE) Payment Token Services Regulation (PTSR)

How crypto advertising is regulated in the UAE

In the UAE, multiple regulators review crypto promotions based on location and asset type. Federal Decree Law No. 6 of 2025 classifies crypto-related financial promotions as licensable activities. Advertisers must keep ads accurate, avoid implying legal tender status, and align all messaging with the specific service covered by their license. These rules apply to any marketing visible in the UAE, even if it is created abroad.

In Dubai, VARA enforces strict marketing standards for crypto service providers. Advertisers must avoid misleading claims, clearly disclose their licensing status, and prevent hidden or indirect cross-border targeting.

Outside free zones, the SCA oversees onshore activities in the UAE. It requires platforms to promote only approved assets and to ensure that all marketing aligns with the permissions they receive.

The CBUAE regulates payment tokens and stablecoins. It restricts advertising for unapproved stablecoins and requires clear, upfront disclosure of licensing status and risks.

Sanctions for non-compliance

Under Federal Decree Law No. 6 of 2025, violations can result in fines ranging from AED 50,000 to AED 500,000,000 (approximately $13.6 million), as well as the possibility of imprisonment for responsible individuals.

Under VARA regulations, marketing breaches may result in fines ranging from AED 100,000 to AED 5,000,000, suspension of services, or full license revocation for repeated misconduct.

The SCA and CBUAE can also impose restrictions, mandatory suspensions, or full operational bans for firms that advertise services or tokens they are not licensed to offer.

Singapore – Medium Regulated Market

Active frameworks that regulate crypto advertising

Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) guidelines for Digital Payment Tokens (DPTs) under the Payment Services Act (PSA)

MAS marketing and promotional rules for DPT services

Amendments to the Securities and Futures Act (SFA) and related guidance for digital token service providers (DTSPs)

How crypto advertising is regulated in Singapore

Singapore limits the placement and display of crypto ads. MAS prohibits marketing that portrays digital tokens as low-risk or easy to profit from, and mass-market advertising (such as ads on public transport, billboards, or influencer promotions) is not allowed unless it occurs strictly through a firm’s own website or app.

Companies must hold the appropriate licensing under the PSA and SFA if they promote or operate token services accessible to Singapore users.

Overseas firms are also required to comply if their ads affect Singapore residents.

Promotions must include adequate risk warnings and cannot offer incentives, rewards, or messaging that encourages excessive trading or suggests guaranteed returns.

Firms must ensure that all marketing materials accurately reflect their approved regulatory status.

Sanctions for non-compliance

Under MAS rules, marketing violations can trigger civil or criminal penalties. Non-compliance with DTSP licensing or promotional requirements may result in fines of up to SGD 270,000 (≈ approximately $200,000) or imprisonment for up to three years.

MAS may also revoke licenses, require firms to exit the Singapore market, issue public warnings, or disqualify individuals responsible for misleading promotions.

Because these penalties are defined at the statutory level, any improper crypto advertising is treated as a high-risk compliance breach.

China – Total Ban

Active frameworks that regulate crypto advertising

People’s Bank of China (PBoC) and the State Council have banned all crypto-related activities

Advertising Law of the People’s Republic of China (Revised 2021)

How crypto advertising is regulated in China

Since crypto advertising is not allowed, it is automatically illegal and subject to the country’s strictest financial and cyber enforcement measures.

More precisely, crypto trading, issuance, and promotion are completely banned in mainland China. The PBoC and other authorities classify any advertisement or online communication promoting cryptocurrencies, exchanges, or wallets as illegal financial activity.

Due to the blanket prohibition, there are no specific regulations governing crypto advertising (any form of promotion or marketing of crypto assets to Chinese residents is unlawful).

Sanctions for non-compliance

Promoting or advertising crypto services in China can lead to criminal charges, fines exceeding ¥100,000 (CNY), and prison sentences of up to five years under financial crime provisions.

Authorities also have the power to seize assets, block websites, and ban individuals from financial activity.

Canada

Active frameworks that regulate crypto advertising

Canadian Securities Administrators (CSA) / Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada (IIROC) Staff Notice 21-330, Guidance for Crypto-Trading issued September 23, 2021. Platforms: Requirements relating to Advertising, Marketing and Social Media Use

Provincial securities legislation

Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of Canada (FINTRAC) registration and MSB requirements under the Proceeds of Crime (Money Laundering) and Terrorist Financing Act

How crypto advertising is regulated in Canada

When a crypto trading platform (CTP) in Canada facilitates assets that may qualify as securities or derivatives, the CSA and IIROC expect that any advertising, marketing, or social media content complies with existing securities legislation and dealer/marketplace rules.

Platforms must avoid false or misleading statements, such as implying regulatory approval or registration status when none exists, or promoting gambling-style contests, referral bonuses, or “get-rich-quick” schemes. Even if the asset is not a security, CTPs must check whether the marketing triggers registration or suitability obligations.

The federal AML regime requires firms to register as MSBs with FINTRAC if they deal in virtual currency exchange or transfer services, imposing compliance obligations regarding promotion as part of their business activities.

Sanctions for non-compliance

Canada does not set a specific fine amount in its advertising guidelines for crypto marketing. However, regulators may use the full range of provincial securities enforcement powers and federal AML penalties.

For example, unregistered crypto platforms may face enforcement actions, cease trade orders, removal of registration, and civil monetary penalties under provincial securities acts.

For AML violations, for example, FINTRAC recently imposed a fine of C$176.9 million (≈ approximately US$126 million) on a cryptocurrency dealer for failing to report suspicious transactions, signaling risk for crypto-service providers.

Current Regulations on Major Platforms

Platform | Stance | Notes
Google | Moderate | Allows crypto ads only with certifications; bans ICOs and unlicensed exchanges; frequent policy updates; strong enforcement.
Meta (Facebook & Instagram) | Moderate | Requires verification and licenses; allows crypto ads with approval; enforcement often misses scams.
Tiktok | Very Strict | Bans most crypto ads globally; no ICOs, no wallets, no exchanges; tiny exceptions in closed pilot regions.
Reddit | Flexible | Allows crypto ads as a restricted category; requires approval and licensing; avoids exaggerated claims.
X (Twitter) | Flexible | Allows crypto ads in many regions with compliance; weak enforcement led to fines; open to industry participation.
Brave Ads | Friendly | Allows crypto ads only with certifications; bans ICOs and unlicensed exchanges; frequent policy updates; strong enforcement.
Telegram | Friendly | Unofficially tolerant; channels and bots promote crypto actively; limited centralized enforcement.
Quora Ads | Flexible | Allows crypto ads with targeting restrictions; requires compliance with local laws; decent approval turnaround.
Coinzilla | Friendly | Crypto-specialized network; strict internal vetting; fully aligned with global crypto ad regulations.

Friendly Crypto Advertising Platforms & Geos

The Friendliest Countries with Crypto Advertising

United Arab Emirates (UAE);

Singapore;

Switzerland;

Malta;

Gibraltar;

Estonia;

Portugal;

Cyprus;

Georgia;

Cayman Islands.

The Friendliest Platforms for Crypto Advertising

Coinzilla Ad Network;

Brave Ads / Brave Browser;

Telegram;

Reddit;

X (formerly Twitter);

Quora Ads.

Why Coinzilla Is the Right Choice for Crypto Advertising

Coinzilla was built specifically for the crypto and fintech industries. This focus gives it a clear advantage over general ad networks that try to retrofit policies as regulations change.

Many major platforms rely on blanket bans, inconsistent approvals, or a limited understanding of crypto-specific needs. Coinzilla takes a different approach. It designs its platform around compliance, performance, and relevance from the start.

Coinzilla works exclusively with crypto advertisers and publishers. Every campaign aligns with applicable advertising regulations, including MiCA in the EU and FCA rules in the UK. The platform also supports local frameworks in the US, UAE, Singapore, and other key markets. All advertisers and publishers complete a strict vetting process before launching campaigns.

With a policy-driven approach and years of experience navigating crypto regulations, Coinzilla acts as a partner. It understands the legal landscape and helps advertisers stay ahead of it.

Common Global Requirements

DO NOT claim that crypto assets are risk-free or guaranteed to be appreciated in value.

DO NOT target individuals who lack financial literacy or those identified as vulnerable consumers.

DO NOT use misleading visuals, testimonials, or celebrity endorsements that imply credibility or guaranteed results.

DO NOT advertise crypto assets as substitutes for traditional savings, pensions, or insurance products.

DO NOT omit clear risk warnings about volatility, loss of capital, or lack of investor protection.

DO NOT use language suggesting quick profits, such as “get rich fast”, “double your money”, or “limited-time opportunity.”

DO NOT promote crypto assets without disclosing your relationship to the issuer, exchange, or platform (e.g., sponsorships or affiliate links).

DO NOT use advertising content that suggests the issuer or promoter is licensed, regulated, or approved in a way that is inaccurate or misleading.

DO NOT use influencers or affiliates who fail to disclose paid partnerships or promotional agreements.

DO NOT present forward-looking statements (like future performance) as facts or promises.

DO NOT encourage credit-financed crypto purchases or imply that borrowing to invest is a safe strategy.

DO NOT fail to include the required statement that the marketing communication is not approved by a competent national authority (where that must be stated) when such a rule applies.

FAQ

Is crypto advertising legal in 2025?
Yes, crypto advertising is legal in many countries in 2025, but it is heavily regulated. Advertisers must follow existing financial promotion, consumer protection, and disclosure laws, which vary by country. In some regions, such as China, crypto advertising is fully banned.

What happens if a crypto ad violates regulations?
Non-compliant crypto ads can be rejected, removed, or lead to account suspensions. Regulators may also impose fines ranging from hundreds of thousands to several million dollars, and in severe cases, issue advertising bans or criminal penalties.

Do crypto ads require disclosures and risk warnings?
Yes. Most jurisdictions require clear risk warnings, disclosure of promotional relationships, and statements that ads are not approved by financial authorities. Ads must not promise guaranteed returns or present crypto assets as low-risk investments.

Which countries allow crypto advertising?
Crypto advertising is allowed in regulated markets such as the EU, UK, US, UAE, Singapore, Canada, Switzerland, and Malta, provided advertisers comply with local laws. Each country enforces its own licensing, disclosure, and targeting requirements.

Which platforms support compliant crypto advertising?
Crypto-focused platforms like Coinzilla, along with select channels such as Telegram, Reddit, X (formerly Twitter), and Brave Ads, support compliant crypto advertising. These platforms apply industry-specific review processes designed to align campaigns with local regulations.

Final Word

The global crypto advertising landscape is defined by compliance. From the explicit bans in China to the detailed financial promotion rules in the UK, simply having a great crypto product is no longer enough; you need a regulatory roadmap.

Navigating this complex landscape (MiCA, GENIUS Act, FCA rules, and platform policies) is crucial to avoiding multimillion-dollar fines, criminal charges, and market bans.

Choose partners and platforms that are built for this complexity, rather than merely adapting to it.

Ready to launch compliant campaigns worldwide? Sign up to Coinzilla now!