Key Moments:
- The Secretariat of Prizes and Betting (SPA) formalized an agreement in July with the Brazil Digital Council, obligating tech platforms to remove online ads for unlicensed bookmakers upon request from the Ministry of Finance.
- Technology companies established a specialized channel to streamline requests for removing suspicious or illicit betting content.
- The initiative aims to limit the exposure of illegal betting advertisements, with a particular focus on protecting minors and supporting regulated market integrity.
Government-Tec Partnership Intensifies Action Against Illegal Betting
The Brazilian government has strengthened efforts to combat unlicensed bookmakers by forming a new alliance with leading technology companies. Under the July cooperation pact involving the Secretariat of Prizes and Betting (SPA) and the Brazil Digital Council, which represents top technology players in the country, online platforms must now remove advertisements from unlicensed betting operators whenever the Ministry of Finance requests it.
Focus on Digital Advertising to Deter Market Abuse
Officials have observed that illegal betting operations utilize online channels such as search engines, social networks, and influencer endorsements to reach consumers rapidly. By targeting these digital marketing tools, authorities seek to reduce the reach and visibility of unauthorized betting platforms.
SPA Secretary Regis Dudena clarified that “only operators with national authorisation and the extension ‘.bet.br’ are allowed to advertise and be legal in Brazil. Any site without this extension is illegal.”
He added, “Click-based advertising on social media and search engines is the most efficient for signing up new bettors“, expanding on the government’s motivation to collaborate with major digital platforms.
Implementation of a Dedicated Content Removal Channel
Until now, the Ministry of Finance could only issue warnings to companies about flagged content. The recent accord introduces a formalized process, with technology giants launching a “dedicated channel” for the SPA’s removal requests. This might include an online reporting system or a direct email address for handling these matters rapidly, enhancing communication and response efficiency between authorities and tech platforms.
“Having a specific tool or email ensures these requests are sent to the right people quickly“, Dudena explained.
Platforms Urged to Act Proactively
The agreement recommends that digital platforms take independent action to remove betting content from unlicensed operators, even without explicit government notice. Since the SPA makes a public list of licensed operators available, platforms can more readily identify unauthorized advertisers. While not enforced by law, SPA leadership expressed optimism that automation could streamline the removal process further. However, the arrangement continues to depend on voluntary cooperation from the platforms themselves.
Dudena noted the relative simplicity of introducing automated removal, but emphasized that the system is built on collaborative, not compulsory, compliance.
Navigating the Challenges of Identifying Illicit Content
Officials recognize that not all potentially illegal ads are easy to categorize. While some content clearly violates regulations, others require careful examination. The SPA intends to launch a “gradient of content” removal framework, ranging from definitively illegal material to ambiguous cases, to offer more transparent and predictable advertising standards for both regulators and technology companies.
Safeguarding Children and Other Vulnerable Groups
In addition to market regulation, the initiative is designed to shield children from the risks associated with illegal betting promotion. The Brazil Digital Council underscored that this partnership supports compliance with laws that protect minors online, reducing underage exposure to gambling content and ensuring that only permitted operators reach the Brazilian public.
Strengthening Confidence in the Legal Betting Market
This coalition between the government and digital giants is seen as a significant development in Brazil’s initiative to control the growth of illegal betting and reinforce trust in the regulated sector. Officials believe that, as the betting industry continues to expand, only sustained partnerships and consistent enforcement will maintain a fair and secure environment for all stakeholders.
Overview of Key Elements
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Agreement Parties | SPA (Secretariat of Prizes and Betting) and Brazil Digital Council |
| Platform Obligations | Remove unlicensed betting ads on Ministry of Finance request |
| Content Removal Channel | Dedicated reporting system or email established for SPA requests |
| Voluntary Action | Platforms encouraged to proactively remove illicit ads |
| Audience Protection | Focus on minors and compliance with child safety laws |
- Author
Daniel Williams
