Brazil: Influencer Denies Profiting from Followers’ Losses in Online Gambling

Brasília – May 14, 2025 – www.zonadeazar.com Brazilian influencer and TV host Virgínia Fonseca testified before the Parliamentary Inquiry Committee (CPI) on Betting this Tuesday (13), denying that she received commissions based on the financial losses of her followers in online gambling platforms—a practice referred to as the “misfortune fee.” Her testimony was requested by Senator Soraya Thronicke (Podemos-MS), rapporteur of the CPI.

Fonseca refuted claims that her sponsorship contracts with betting platforms like Esportes da Sorte and Blaze included profit-sharing based on users’ losses. She agreed to submit her contracts to the committee and denied allegations published by Piauí magazine, asserting that her contracts are “completely normal.”

Responsible gambling messaging

Fonseca emphasized that her content follows CONAR’s advertising guidelines. She said her Instagram posts, where she has over 50 million followers, always include clear disclaimers: gambling is for fun, one can win or lose, it’s prohibited for minors, and should be avoided by those struggling with addiction.

However, Senator Thronicke criticized the lack of visible warnings in some of Fonseca’s content. A video presented during the hearing allegedly lacked proper disclaimers. Fonseca explained it was recorded before CONAR introduced stricter rules.

Betting platforms and investigations

Fonseca claimed she was unaware of any legal investigations involving Esportes da Sorte, which is under scrutiny for alleged money laundering. The senator also questioned the use of special influencer accounts with biased algorithms. Fonseca denied this, stating she uses the same betting interface as the public.

Public health concerns and addiction

Several senators expressed concern over the financial and psychological impact of online gambling, urging Fonseca to reconsider promoting such content. She responded that comprehensive regulation is the key to protecting users and ensuring consistency across the industry.

Advertising restrictions proposed

Senator Carlos Portinho (PL-RJ), rapporteur of Bill 2.985/2023, proposed stricter controls on gambling advertising by influencers. He called current disclaimers like “responsible gambling” ineffective, suggesting stronger language such as “gambling causes addiction” or “gambling can lead to financial loss.”

The CPI has until June 14, 2025, to deliver its final report after a 45-day extension. The investigation seeks to assess the economic impact of digital betting in Brazil and propose stricter legal frameworks to reduce harm to the population.

Editó: @_fonta www.zonadeazar.com