Uruguay Warns Against Illegal Gambling Advertising

Uruguay.– September 26, 2025 – www.zonadeazar.com The Uruguayan government has issued a public warning over the rise of unauthorized gambling advertisements online, emphasizing the risks to consumers and the need to strengthen regulatory control.

Overview

Uruguayan authorities have observed an expansion of advertising promoting unlicensed gambling platforms. Through official statements, the government warns that such promotions undermine regulated markets, jeopardize consumer protection, and encourage use of unchecked operators.

Uruguay maintains its commitment to a responsible regulatory framework, where gambling advertising is only permitted under strict guidelines and by authorized operators.

Details / Context

Nature of the warning

  • A surge in digital advertising (social media, apps, banners) inviting users to bet on unregulated sites has been detected.
  • The government pointed out these ads fail to meet legal requirements—such as risk disclaimers, age verification, or geo-blocking rules.

Identified risks

  • Vulnerable individuals may be enticed to gamble on platforms lacking safeguards, payout guarantees, or self-exclusion tools.
  • Illegal betting avoids taxation, reducing public funds for social and preventive programs.
  • It complicates oversight and enforcement by regulatory bodies.

Institutional response

  • The Interior Ministry and regulatory authority issued joint statements calling on media platforms to halt such advertisements.
  • Sanctions against digital ad intermediaries violating regulations are under consideration.
  • Legal operators are urged to amplify public awareness campaigns and report unfair competition.

Future Perspective

In Uruguay’s view, next steps include deploying tighter technical measures (DNS blocking, ad filters) and reinforcing digital surveillance.

The country is expected to demand greater transparency in gambling ads—clear disclaimers, visible limits, age checks, and geographical controls.

Uruguay’s stance could set a precedent across Latin America, inspiring other jurisdictions to act against illegal gambling advertising and protect national consumers.

Zona de Azar remains committed to covering regulatory developments in iGaming aimed at preserving fair, safe, and transparent markets.

🔗 Edited by: @_fonta www.zonadeazar.com

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