At first glance, iGaming in Argentina looks like the next big success story in Latin America. But the reality is more complex. With an estimated 4.8 million users and an...
Argentina’s Buenos Aires blocks 251 illegal gambling websites
Argentina’s National Communications Agency (ENACOM) has announced that 251 gambling websites have been shut down in the Buenos Aires province as part of a coordinated enforcement action against illegal platforms.
The websites were designed in a way to appear like regular licensed platforms offering sports betting and casino games with statements of easy withdrawals. After investigations, it was found that none of the platforms had the appropriate controls in place, and there was no guarantee of fair play, with many cases showing that users weren’t able to withdraw their money as the funds disappeared into the illegal systems after being deposited.
Additionally, the review of the sites revealed that minors were able to easily access them, as the platforms offered no identity checks. The authorities also found that some young people were helping to move money for the networks and were paid small sums for the help, making minors act as intermediaries in the operations.
The investigation was led by San Isidro cybercrime prosecutors, as well as regulators, and industry groups joined to provide assistance. Initially, the enforcement action began after local gambling industry representatives raised the issue of widespread usage of illegal platforms, after which the authorities started tracking how the platforms operate over some months, which slowed down enforcement but made it more systematic.
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