Polymarket is a prediction markets platform that operates as unlicensed betting on event outcomes, making it functionally equivalent to sports betting or event wagering without proper regulatory authorization.
The enforcement action involves blocking an online platform and removing mobile applications, which aligns with digital gambling regulation and online gambling enforcement measures.
Topic
The update describes a court-ordered blocking of access to an unlicensed gambling platform via ISP DNS/IP blocking and app store removal, which is a clear Website Blocking enforcement action.
Website Blocking is a child of Enforcement; the court order and coordinated task force action constitute formal regulatory enforcement against an unlicensed operator.
2026-03-18 13:31:22·nsairam@vixio.com
Meta Id
2977025
GUID
261fee0b03de710bd1ed187dc55203d1
Argentina bans Polymarket for allowing betting without age verification. Google and Apple must remove the apps. Understand the decision.
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TITLE: Argentina Orders Blocking of Polymarket Platform and Removal of Mobile Applications
BODY:
On March 16, 2026, Judge Susana Parada of Buenos Aires issued an order blocking access to the Polymarket prediction markets platform throughout Argentina. The decision includes instructions for Google and Apple to remove Polymarket's mobile applications from their stores in the country, and requires the National Communications Authority (ENACOM) to instruct internet service providers to implement DNS or IP blocking to prevent access to the platform's website.
The court determined that Polymarket operated as an unlicensed betting system in violation of Argentine law. The Public Prosecutor's Office cited the platform's lack of identity and age verification requirements, noting that accounts could be created within minutes, potentially allowing children and teenagers to access and trade on the platform without controls. The investigation originated from a complaint filed by the Buenos Aires City Lottery (LOTBA), which identified Polymarket operating without proper authorization. A coordinated task force involving the Judicial Investigations Unit (CIJ) and the Argentine State Lotteries Association (ALEA) confirmed no active licence existed for the platform's operation in Argentina.
The blocking decision followed controversy surrounding trading activity on Polymarket's inflation-linked contracts. Trading volume spiked approximately 15 minutes before the Argentine statistics institute (INDEC) released the official February inflation index, raising concerns about potential insider trading and data leaks. Approximately USD 91,000 was recorded on a single Argentine inflation contract immediately preceding the official data release.
This enforcement action reflects broader regulatory trends in Latin America and globally. Polymarket has previously faced restrictions in France, Italy, Germany, Colombia, and other jurisdictions. The blocking represents an escalation in cryptocurrency and prediction markets regulation across the region.