Subtel proposes three technical mechanisms to block illegal casinos
The Superintendency of Telecommunications of Chile (Subtel) presented to a court a detailed analysis of three technical alternatives to block access to illegal online gambling sites. The options include Deep Packet Inspection (DPI), Server Name Indication (SNI), and Domain Name System (DNS) systems, each with different operational advantages and limitations.
The technical analysis arises in response to a judicial order requesting Subtel to explain what mechanisms it could implement to combat the proliferation of illegal platforms in Chilean territory. The telecommunications authority has publicly acknowledged that there is no 100% effective system to permanently block these sites, given that clandestine operators constantly modify their IP addresses and domains to evade restrictions.
The DPI option (deep packet inspection) allows identifying and filtering specific traffic at a technical level, but requires direct intervention on telecommunications infrastructure. The SNI method (server name indication) operates at the HTTPS connection level and is easier to implement, although it presents loopholes for sophisticated operators. The DNS system blocks domain name resolutions, being the least invasive solution but also the easiest to evade through proxies or VPNs.
Subtel has indicated that the effectiveness of any mechanism will depend on a combination of measures, accompanied by regulatory reinforcement and consumer education. Technical blocking alone does not solve the problem, as determined users will always find ways to access illegal platforms through privacy tools. The authority's proposal emphasizes that blocks must be dynamic, continuously updated as illegal operators adapt their tactics.
For Chile and other regulated markets in Latin America, this discussion reflects a central dilemma: how to protect consumers without affecting freedom of internet access. Effective regulation requires a balance between technical control, legal supervision, and public education on the risks of unauthorized platforms.
Tags: Chile gambling regulation, illegal online betting, blocking technology LatAm