Chile’s Supreme Court has ordered the immediate blocking of unauthorized online betting sites operating in the country.
The ruling was issued by the Constitutional Third Chamber of the Supreme Court after upholding protection appeals filed by Chilean Charity and Concepción Lottery, instructing telecommunications companies to prevent access to platforms offering betting services without legal authorization.
According to information presented during the proceedings, more than 3,800 illegal betting websites are currently active in Chile.
Many of these platforms reportedly advertise through traditional media channels and maintain high-profile sports sponsorships despite operating outside any regulatory oversight.
Data cited in the case points to a sharp rise in problem gambling and a significant drop in the average age at which gambling-related harm first appears, falling from around 45 years old to close to 18.
Mario Parada, General Manager of Concepción Lottery, said the ruling reinforces a long-standing principle.
“The message is clear: in Chile, complying with the law is not optional,” he stated, arguing that regulated operators are subject to constant supervision, responsible gambling standards and mandatory social contributions, unlike illegal platforms that operate without controls or public accountability.
Legal Counsel Gonzalo Cisternas added that the Court reaffirmed an already established legal position by offering online betting without authorization is illegal.
“The case law is clear and internet service providers have a duty to act against illegal content,” he added.
Chile’s Congress continues to examine legislation to regulate online betting.
Growing political pressure to tighten controls on gambling promotion is also happening in the country, including proposals to penalize digital advertising for unlicensed operators.
A recent audit found underpayments by a regulated casino operator in Viña del Mar, Chile
