Buenos Aires Province Orders ISP Blockade of 537 Unlicensed Gambling Sites
2026-07-20
Source: Global Gaming Insider
A court in Buenos Aires province has ordered ISPs to block 537 illegal gambling sites, citing lack of player protections and risks to minors. The operation, led by prosecutor Patricio Ferrari, involves ongoing collaboration between regulators and law enforcement.
Authorities in Argentina’s Buenos Aires province have directed internet service providers to block access to 537 websites found to be operating illegal gambling and betting services. The order is part of an investigation being led by the Cybercrime Specialized Prosecutor’s Office of the San Isidro Judicial Department.
The probe was launched under Article 301 bis of the Argentine Penal Code and followed evidentiary submissions from the Argentine Chamber of Casinos, Bingos and Annexes (CASCBA). Prosecutor Patricio Ferrari oversaw the case, which uncovered that the targeted platforms lacked mandatory controls and certifications to ensure fair play and random outcomes.
Investigators also identified significant deficiencies in user identity verification processes, enabling minors to gain access to the sites. Bettors frequently encountered difficulties when attempting to withdraw winnings, according to the findings.
Gonzalo Atanasof, President of the Buenos Aires Provincial Institute of Lotteries and Casinos (IPLyC), said the crackdown disrupts what he described as a shadow network that exposes players to risks. “Every illegal site we manage to block removes another point of access to an underground network that does not protect players,” Atanasof stated.
Ferrari stressed the value of public-private collaboration in curbing the spread of unauthorized betting, noting that cooperation with the IPLyC is essential to shield minors from the dangers posed by these platforms. The blockades were executed through established protocols involving the National Communications Entity (ENACOM), which coordinates with ISP operators.
Additionally, the investigation revealed that the organizations running the illegal platforms recruited adolescents and young adults to serve as cashiers or intermediaries, often in exchange for small commissions. Prosecutors noted that blocking efforts require continuous monitoring because new illicit sites appear regularly, and investigations remain ongoing to identify the individuals behind these operations.