Catalina Gorostidi, a former Big Brother Argentina contestant, is now under investigation for promoting illegal online gambling platforms through her social media accounts. She’s not alone.
Her former partner Joel Ojeda, also from the reality show, had his home raided by authorities last month. Police seized an iPhone 15, two high-end laptops, and ARS398,930 in cash from his San Miguel residence. The operation involved Buenos Aires City Lottery, the Judicial Police, and the Specialised Prosecutor’s Office for Gambling.
Another ex-contestant, Coti Romero, faced similar raids earlier this month. The pattern’s clear: reality TV personalities are facing serious legal trouble for betting promotions.
Why Regulators Target Reality Show Influencers
Authorities worry about the reach these personalities have with younger audiences. They’ve built massive followings on Instagram, TikTok and X after their TV appearances. That makes them valuable to unlicensed operators trying to reach Argentinian bettors.
Buenos Aires City Lottery and prosecutors launched a comprehensive crackdown on illegal gambling promotion across social media. The concern isn’t just about unlicensed sites. It’s about public figures using their celebrity status to advertise them.
Gorostidi was notified about the investigation back in May. But according to police reports, she continued using her platform for promotions anyway.
What Actions Authorities Have Taken
The enforcement operation’s been massive. Officials conducted over 30 simultaneous court-ordered raids targeting influencers and promoters. They blocked approximately 2,300 social media profiles and posts. Around 100 legal notices went out to individuals involved in the scheme.
Police sources say Ojeda promoted and recruited bettors through social media since at least January 2025. Despite questioning by prosecutors in April, he allegedly kept up recruitment activities almost daily.
After the raid, Ojeda pushed back on social media. “I was never detained or handcuffed,” he wrote. “Yes, 12 people raided my house looking for who knows what. Of course, they found nothing.”
But authorities disagree. The seized cash and devices tell a different story.
How This Changes Influencer Marketing Rules
Buenos Aires City Lottery president Jesús Acevedo led the coordinated action alongside prosecutor Juan Rozas and the Specialised Cybercrime Unit of San Isidro. They’re making an example of high-profile cases.
The crackdown puts other influencers on notice. Promoting unlicensed betting sites carries real legal risk now, especially for public figures. Reality TV contestants who built careers on social media influence face particular scrutiny.
The enforcement pattern’s expanding. Three Big Brother contestants under investigation in a matter of weeks shows authorities mean business. Other personalities who’ve promoted gambling platforms should expect similar attention.
