Enacom to allow cell phone blocking in Argentine provincial prisons

Argentina's National Communications Entity (Enacom) has committed to amending Resolution 300/2026 to allow for the blocking of mobile phones, SIM cards, and phone lines within provincial prisons. Previously, the legal mechanism for blocking illegal devices only applied to facilities managed by the Federal Penitentiary Service.

The decision follows a viral incident at the San Felipe penitentiary complex, where inmates conducted a live stream with a well-known streamer. This event highlighted a legal gap that prevented provincial authorities from forcing mobile companies to deactivate devices used for criminal activities, such as extortion and organized crime coordination.

The agreement was reached during a meeting in Buenos Aires between Enacom officials and the Minister of Security, Mercedes Rus. Once formalized, telecommunications providers will be required to block specific IMEIs, IMSIs, and lines when requested by competent provincial authorities.