IBJR Launches “Goat in the Room” Campaign vs. Illegal Betting

Brazil.– September 2, 2025 – www.zonadeazar.com The Brazilian Institute for Responsible Gaming (IBJR) has launched the “Goat in the room” campaign to highlight the negative impact of illegal betting and push for stronger regulation that protects both players and licensed operators.
Overview
Brazil’s betting market faces a dual challenge: the growth of licensed operators under the Secretariat of Prizes and Betting (SPA) on one hand, and the persistence of an illegal market on the other.
With the “Goat in the room” campaign, IBJR aims to draw attention to a problem that is obvious yet often overlooked.
Context and details
The slogan refers to a Brazilian expression meaning a visible problem no one wants to confront.
Main campaign goals:
- Raise awareness of the risks of illegal betting.
- Push for stricter enforcement against unlicensed operators.
- Defend fair competition for regulated companies.
- Protect players, ensuring transparency and Responsible Gaming.
Economic impact
- Lost tax revenues: illegal betting drains millions from public funds.
- Unfair competition: licensed operators pay taxes and comply with rules, while illegal sites face no restrictions.
- Investment deterrence: lack of control discourages foreign investment.
Social and institutional impact
- Fraud exposure: illegal platforms cannot guarantee payouts or data security.
- Higher addiction risks: absence of Responsible Gaming programs leaves players vulnerable.
- Institutional distrust: parallel markets undermine regulatory credibility.
Future outlook
IBJR expects the campaign to put pressure on authorities to increase enforcement and shut down unlicensed platforms.
The initiative strengthens the industry’s push for a regulated, fair, and sustainable market in Brazil. The message is clear: as long as the “goat is in the room,” Brazil will not reach its full iGaming potential.
Zona de Azar, the key source for global iGaming news.
Editó: @_fonta www.zonadeazar.com