The Specialized Prosecutor’s Office for Gambling (FEJA) successfully blocked 237 websites offering illegal gambling that operated in Buenos Aires. The case was initiated following a report made by the Argentine Chamber of Casinos, Bingos, and Annexes, and the Judicial Investigations Body of the Public Prosecutor’s Office, which after an investigation, determined that the websites allowed betting from the Buenos Aires City area (CABA).
The Specialized Prosecutor’s Office against Illegal Gambling was created in July 2024 due to the rising number of gambling activities affecting children and adolescents. The Attorney General of the City, Juan Bautista Mahiques, stated: “Just because your child is playing in their room today does not mean they are out of danger.” He emphasized that “there are risks, and we all have to adapt: the justice system, parents, schools. It’s a team effort, which is why we are calling on the City Government, the Ministries of Education and Justice, ENACOM, virtual wallet companies, the entire educational community, and NGOs to stay in touch and be alert.”
Jorge Macri, the head of the city government, referred to the judicial resolution and asserted: “Every website we close is one less opportunity for kids to gamble. Thanks to the work of the Specialized Prosecutor’s Office for Gambling, created by the Public Prosecutor’s Office in July this year, we have taken an important step in the fight against gambling addiction.”
The Government of Buenos Aires City, in collaboration with the Buenos Aires Lottery, (LOTBA), recently launched “Talking is Winning,” a campaign aimed at raising awareness about the dangers of online gambling among minors. Among the actions taken, access to gambling sites was blocked in 1,770 public schools.
“Online gambling is growing day by day and is a real problem. Through online betting platforms, practices and habits develop that, if extended over time, can lead to anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, and sleep and attention disorders,” said Jorge Macri.
The official added that “when consumption becomes problematic, dialogue is essential to understand how to address it in the best way.”
Jesus Acevedo, president of the Buenos Aires Lottery highlighted the particular risk for minors: “Minors are the most exposed to gambling addiction, as they are much more easily influenced and manipulated. When a minor gambles, they do so on illegal sites that do not meet the required control and safety standards.”