Google Updates Argentina Real-Money Gaming Policy; Interpol Seizes Crypto Assets

Key Takeaways

• Google Play Policy: New compliance deadlines set for Argentina-facing gambling apps in December 2025 update.
• Global Security: Interpol’s Operation HAECHI VI freezes $439M connected to illegal mobile gambling and money laundering.
• Market Mover: DigiPlus reports renewed mobile growth in the Philippines following regulatory recalibration.

Google Play | Policy Update

Google has updated its "Gambling and Games" policy for the Argentine market, effective immediately as of mid-December 2025. The update mandates that all real-money gambling (RMG) apps distributed via the Play Store in Argentina must now provide enhanced documentation verifying provincial licensing status. While Google has permitted RMG apps in Argentina since earlier regulatory shifts, this December update introduces stricter enforcement on "per-province" geo-gating.

For operators, this means apps must strictly utilize geolocation APIs to ensure users are physically located within the specific province where the operator holds a license (e.g., LOTBA in Buenos Aires). Failure to implement robust, province-level geofencing will result in immediate app suspension. This move aligns Google’s mobile ecosystem with Argentina’s fragmented regulatory framework, forcing operators to update their location service protocols or risk de-listing during the peak holiday season.

Interpol | Fraud & Security

In a significant win for mobile ecosystem security, Interpol announced the results of "Operation HAECHI VI" on December 16, 2025. The global operation targeted cyber-enabled financial crime, specifically focusing on money laundering linked to illegal online gambling and mobile betting fraud.

Authorities froze approximately $439 million in assets and seized control of nearly 400 cryptocurrency wallets used by unregulated mobile casino operators to bypass banking controls. The operation highlights the growing scrutiny on "grey market" mobile casinos that utilize app cloning and side-loading to target users in regulated jurisdictions. For legitimate operators, this crackdown reduces unfair competition from unlicensed entities that often bypass KYC/AML costs.

Digi Plus | Market Performance

Philippines-based mobile operator Digi Plus (formerly Leisure & Resorts World Corp) confirmed on December 17 that it is "regaining momentum" after navigating recent regulatory hurdles. The company, which pivoted to a mobile-first strategy with its Bingo Plus and Arena Plus platforms, cited optimized mobile UX and faster payment processing rails as key drivers for its Q4 recovery. This signals continued viability for mobile-first localized platforms in Southeast Asia, despite the region's complex regulatory environment surrounding POGOs (Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators).

Sources

• Google Play Console Help: Update to Gambling and Games Policy (December 2025)
• Interpol Newsroom: Operation HAECHI VI Results