Subtel orders to block online betting sites such as nayanayafacil-903′′ and apuestasroyal, among others

The Chilean government has ordered the blocking of access to 42 online gambling websites, including domains such as “nayafacil-903” and “apuestasroyal,” through major internet service providers. The order was issued by the Subsecretaría de Telecomunicaciones (Subtel) and directed to companies including Entel, Movistar, Claro, GTD, WOM, and VTR. The move follows recent rulings by the Supreme Court and the Appeals Court in Santiago, which reinforced regulatory measures against illegal online gambling operations. This directive marks the second time that a list of online betting sites has been targeted for blocking. The initial request covered 12 websites, and this new action expands the scope to include so-called “mirror sites”, alternative links that redirect users to the original domain being blocked. These mirror sites often evade traditional blocking methods, making them harder to regulate. The list includes both primary domains and their mirrored counterparts, with each site having been verified by the Superintendencia de Casinos de Juego (SCJ). Under the order, internet service providers (ISPs) were instructed to block the specified URLs using the Domain Name System (DNS) mechanism within 48 hours of receiving the notice. The process allows for dynamic updates, meaning that new domains, subdomains, or mirrors identified later can also be added to the list. This approach aims to prevent the proliferation of illicit gambling platforms while minimizing the risk of inadvertently blocking legitimate services. Subtel emphasized that the DNS method was recommended by the Appeals Court due to its effectiveness in preserving network neutrality and user privacy. It ensures that only the designated sites are blocked, reducing the likelihood of over-blocking. The court’s ruling also stressed the need for proportionality in enforcement, ensuring that legal services remain accessible. The ISPs involved must provide proof of compliance directly to the Appeals Court of Santiago, under penalty of legal consequences. They are required to submit documentation confirming the exact date and time of execution of the block. Subtel reiterated that this measure aligns with judicial directives and national regulations aimed at protecting citizens from unauthorized gambling activities. In a statement, Subtel’s head, Romina Garrido, highlighted the agency’s commitment to enforcing legal standards and safeguarding digital security. She noted that the initiative reflects a coordinated effort to ensure that online gambling operates within the bounds of the law, emphasizing the importance of swift action by telecommunications companies. The list of 42 websites includes notable domains such as https://www.apuestasroyal.com/, https://www.nayafacil-903.com/, and others like https://1xbet.com/ and https://stake.com/. Many of these sites have previously been flagged for operating outside regulated frameworks, often offering unlicensed gambling services to local users. The inclusion of mirror sites suggests that regulators are targeting not only the main platforms but also their alternative versions, which are frequently used to bypass restrictions. The measure comes amid ongoing efforts by the government, led by President José Antonio Kast, to strengthen oversight of online gambling. Legal challenges from entities such as the Concepción Lottery played a key role in prompting the current actions, highlighting concerns over the legality and safety of unregulated betting platforms. The involvement of the judiciary underscores the seriousness with which these issues are being addressed. As the ISPs begin implementing the block, further requests for additional sites are anticipated. Subtel has indicated that the process will continue dynamically, adapting to new threats and ensuring that illegal gambling remains inaccessible to the public. The focus remains on maintaining a secure and lawful digital environment for all users.