Uruguay’s Gambling Regulator Warns Media Against Promoting Unlicensed Platforms

The National Directorate of Lotteries and Quinielas (DNLQ) has issued a formal warning to Uruguayan media outlets, urging them to stop promoting online gambling platforms that lack authorization under national law.

According to the regulator, advertising, sponsorship or promotion of unlicensed gambling services directly violates Uruguay’s regulatory framework. The DNLQ stressed that television, digital media and other communication channels must comply more strictly with the law, as continued dissemination of illegal advertising undermines both consumer protection and the integrity of the country’s regulated market.

While the DNLQ has not yet outlined the specific penalties that may apply, it confirmed that non-compliance could trigger regulatory measures. The statement also aligns with Uruguay’s broader enforcement strategy, which already includes domain blocking and cooperation with internet service providers to restrict access to offshore gambling operators.

With the gray market for iGaming expanding globally, the warning highlights that responsibility does not rest solely with operators — media outlets are now being reminded that they, too, play a role in ensuring the legality of gambling promotion in Uruguay.