Sports News
| Published On Mar 10, 2025 6:36 am CET | By Daniel Li

Brazil Proposes Strict Penalties for Illegal Gambling Ads

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PL706-2025, a bill filed by Brazilian federal lawmaker Kim Kataguiri, would make marketing for unlawful gambling illegal. Promoting unauthorized betting services would be illegal under the statute, which carries a maximum sentence of eight years in prison. The protection of vulnerable audiences, such as children and those from low-income backgrounds, is given first priority in the Act.

Anyone found promoting illegal gambling platforms might be imprisoned for one to four years and subject to financial fines under the proposed amendments to Brazil’s penal code. The penalty doubles for more serious offenses, such attacking minors or taking advantage of those who are struggling financially.

Influencers and Public Figures Face Tougher Regulations

The bill also holds public figures and social media influencers accountable for endorsing illegal gambling. Those who promote such platforms to their followers could receive higher fines and additional penalties, especially if they profit through commissions or a share of the gambling revenue.

Kataguiri emphasized the dangers posed by unauthorized gambling operations. He stated, “The regulation of gambling has been a recurring theme in Brazil, but the proliferation of illegal and unauthorized betting platforms poses serious risks to society.” He added that this bill aims to curb the spread of unregulated gambling, prevent financial crimes like money laundering, and protect vulnerable communities.

In Brazil, gambling advertising is still a contentious topic, particularly in light of the government’s new regulations that went into effect on January 1, 2025. Restrictions were put in place in December 2024 by the Secretariat of Prizes and Bets (SPA), which outlawed advertisements that target children or make use of themes and symbols that appeal to young audiences.

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Regulators still face difficulties with illicit gaming businesses in spite of their measures. Anatel, the National Telecommunications Agency, has admitted that it has trouble banning unapproved betting websites that the SPA has identified.

PL706-2025 has the potential to drastically alter the advertising environment as Brazil strives for a more regulated gambling sector, guaranteeing stronger enforcement against illicit betting activities.

Daniel Li

A day trader in cryptocurrencies and avid sports bettor himself, Daniel decided to join the team and share his expertise with the iGaming.org audience. Areas of interest are global crypto regulations and the adoption of cryptocurrency use in the world. Daniel loves to work hard and write “how to guides” related to sports betting to share his take on various topics.