Argentina authorizes mobile phone blocking in provincial prisons

The Argentine national government has authorized the extension of mobile phone blocking mechanisms to provincial prisons. Through Resolution 734/2026 issued by the National Communications Entity (ENACOM), provinces can now join the official protocol to disable devices detected within penitentiary establishments.

Under this measure, mobile service providers are required to block three specific elements: the IMEI (the physical device identifier), the IMSI (associated with the SIM card), and the linked telephone number. This process applies to devices found in both inmate housing areas and restricted access sectors of the facilities.

The decision follows requests from provinces such as Mendoza, where Minister of Security and Justice Mercedes Rus had sought a precise legal framework to implement these measures. The goal is to prevent inmates from using mobile devices to coordinate crimes, conduct scams, or issue threats from within prison walls.

To prevent interference with the communications of nearby residents or businesses, the regulation specifies that any implemented technologies must be strictly adjusted. The inhabilitations will not be automatic; they require an express request from the National Ministry of Security, which will centralize requests from participating provinces.