Argentina Targets Crypto Payments in Online Gambling Crackdown

TLDR

• Argentina bill targets crypto payments tied to illegal online gambling sites

• Crypto firms face new checks under Argentina’s online gambling crackdown

  

• Argentina moves to block banks and crypto firms from illegal betting sites

• New Argentina bill links online gambling reform to youth protection rules

• Illegal betting sites face payment blocks under Argentina’s proposed law

Argentina moved to tighten control over online gambling as officials targeted crypto payments linked to illegal betting sites. The proposed bill would block banks, payment firms, and virtual asset providers from serving unauthorized operators. The measure also places youth protection and gambling addiction prevention at the center of national policy.

Argentina Pushes New Controls on Gambling Payments

Argentina submitted the Draft Law on the Prevention of Gambling Addiction and Regulation of Online Gambling to Congress. The bill seeks to regulate online betting and restrict access to illegal platforms. It also aims to protect children and teenagers from digital gambling services.

The proposal gives several agencies a direct role in enforcement. These include the Central Bank, securities regulator, communications agency, and domain registry. Together, they would target illegal operators through payment blocks, domain action, and technical restrictions.

The bill also treats gambling addiction as a public health issue. The Ministry of Health and SEDRONAR would lead prevention and awareness programs nationwide. They would work with provinces, schools, families, and social groups to reduce gambling harm.

Crypto Providers Face New Compliance Pressure

Argentina’s bill directly covers virtual asset service providers in the payment restrictions. Crypto firms would not serve gambling operators without official approval. Exchanges, payment processors, and fiat gateways may need stronger compliance checks.

The measure could affect offshore betting sites that accept crypto deposits. These platforms often use digital assets when local banking access becomes restricted. The bill seeks to close that gap through financial and technical coordination.

Argentina has already moved against crypto-linked prediction markets. A Buenos Aires court ordered a nationwide block on Polymarket in March. Authorities raised concerns over gambling licenses, identity checks, crypto payments, and access by minors.

Illegal Operators Face Prison Terms

The proposal would amend the Penal Code and raise penalties for illegal betting activity. Operators of unauthorized gambling systems could face three to six years in prison. The bill also targets people who organize, manage, or exploit such systems.

Service providers could also face criminal penalties under the proposed law. Those offering key financial, advertising, digital, or technology support could receive two to four years in prison. This rule would extend enforcement beyond gambling operators.

Argentina would also tighten advertising rules across media and digital platforms. Agencies, influencers, media firms, and content creators would need to verify operator authorization. The bill also bars ads aimed at minors or linked to success, wealth, or social status.

The proposal still needs congressional review before it becomes law. If approved, Argentina would gain wider powers to cut illegal gambling sites from banking and crypto channels. The bill also signals a broader push to treat online gambling as both a market and health risk.

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