Buenos Aires Blocks 537 Illegal Betting Websites

Argentina.- 21 July 2026 www.zonadeazar.com Authorities in the province of Buenos Aires have ordered the blocking of 537 websites offering unauthorised gambling and betting services. The measure was issued by the Cybercrime Prosecutor’s Office of the San Isidro Judicial Department as part of an investigation into illegal gambling operations and risks to minors.

News Details

The investigation followed evidentiary proceedings requested by the Argentine Chamber of Casinos, Bingo Halls and Related Businesses (CASCBA) over a possible breach of Article 301 bis of the Criminal Code.

Authorities established that the platforms operated outside the province’s regulatory framework and lacked controls or certifications guaranteeing game transparency and randomness.

Serious weaknesses were also identified in identity-verification systems. These deficiencies allowed minors to access the platforms and increased their early exposure to online gambling.

The order represents the largest coordinated blocking of illegal betting websites carried out to date in Buenos Aires province and establishes a precedent for future enforcement against unlicensed online gambling.

Industry Context

The decision strengthens cooperation between judicial authorities, the provincial regulator and industry organisations in identifying and restricting unlicensed platforms.

Unlike licensed operators, illegal websites are not subject to regulatory supervision, player-protection requirements or mandatory identity checks. This makes it more difficult to prevent underage access, supervise customer funds and resolve disputes.

Statements

Prosecutor Patricio Ferrari, who is leading the investigation, said:

“Inter-institutional cooperation is an essential tool for tackling the growth of illegal betting and protecting children and adolescents in particular from the risks associated with these platforms.”

Gonzalo Atanasof, President of the Buenos Aires Provincial Institute of Lotteries and Casinos, stated:

“Every illegal website we manage to block is one less gateway into an underground system that does not protect players, does not verify the identity of those accessing it and allows minors to participate.”

Next Steps or Impact

Authorities are expected to continue monitoring new platforms and domains linked to unauthorised betting. The operation may support further complaints, blocking orders and coordinated legal action intended to reduce the illegal market and strengthen player protection across the province.

Edited by: @_fonta