Polymarket reportedly paid creators for fake betting videos

In an investigative report published on June 21, 2026, the Wall Street Journal alleged that Polymarket paid online creators to post deceptive videos showing fake bets. Polymarket, which functions as a prediction market—a platform where users bet on the outcome of future events—reportedly incentivized these creators to produce promotional content that misrepresented the reality of the platform’s usage. The platform has faced scrutiny following these allegations regarding its marketing practices.

As part of its investigation, the Wall Street Journal analyzed 1,100 videos and reviewed instructional materials that Polymarket reportedly provided to its creators. The investigation found that many of these promotional videos were reportedly filmed on near-perfect copies of the Polymarket website. These videos reportedly showcased trades and financial winnings that were not real, creating a false impression of successful betting activity on the platform. These creator videos were also reportedly amplified by a social-media army deployed by a marketing contractor.

The Wall Street Journal also reported that Polymarket instructed creators not to disclose that they were paid by the company. According to the investigation, the company directed these creators to hide their paid partnership status, preventing viewers from knowing that the videos were sponsored advertisements. However, some creators reportedly began adding “@polymarket partner” to their social media bios after journalists started asking questions about the promotional arrangements.

Some creators involved in the campaign have defended the promotional practices. Razeen Khan, a college student and creator who worked with Polymarket until March 2026, compared the videos to fast-food commercials that make products look more appealing than they are in real life. “We’re depicting what actually happens,” Khan said, defending the depiction of simulated trades on the platform and comparing them to standard advertising practices.

In response to the allegations, Polymarket defended its platform’s integrity. The company asserted that it is committed to keeping its markets transparent, fair, and accurate. To address the issues raised by the Wall Street Journal investigation, Polymarket also stated that it plans to conduct an audit of its promotional content. The company has maintained its focus on market integrity throughout the discussion.

Why it matters

The investigation highlights the risks of aggressive influencer marketing in prediction markets, where the line between promotional content and financial reality can become blurred.