Argentinian Deputy accuses Stake of unauthorized use of his name

Argentinian Deputy Maximiliano Ferraro has denounced that third parties have created a website to redirect visitors to Stake's online betting platform.

The site, resembling his official site and using his name without authorization, was denounced by Ferraro in a social media statement. He added that the site had no connection to him and that he had taken legal action seeking the return of the domain, an immediate end to the redirection and sanctions against those responsible.

The lawmaker denied any connection with the platform or the activity it promotes. He said the incident was particularly serious given his role in promoting a bill aimed at preventing problem gambling and restricting gambling advertising. The bill passed the Chamber of Deputies on November 27, 2024, but was never taken up by the Senate.

Ferraro also said it was concerning that his identity had been used to benefit a company he described as having a history of international legal controversies and operating through cryptocurrencies. 

The case comes as Argentina's government pursues its own gambling harm prevention bill. Presented in May, the proposal focuses on illegal gambling and access by minors but does not include several restrictions on gambling advertising contained in Ferraro's bill, including bans on promotion through social media, influencers, public figures and sports sponsorships.

Stake faces legal action in the US, as Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier filed lawsuits against the company and other sweepstakes casino operators, alleging that their platforms constitute illegal online gambling under state law.

The case follows a similar incident reported in the Netherlands. On August 19, the Dutch Responsible Affiliates Quality Mark (KVA) said a website appearing to mimic the national suicide prevention helpline 113 had been used to promote at least 16 illegal gambling operators, including through offers of deposit bonuses and claims of no betting limits.