Zona de Azar Brazil – Brazil: Finance and Anatel Agree to Cooperate on Blocking Illegal Betting Websites
Brazil, December 11, 2024 www.zonadeazar.com The Secretariat of Prizes and Betting of the Ministry of Finance (SPA-MF) and the National Telecommunications Agency (Anatel) formalized a Technical Cooperation Agreement (ACT) on Monday (December 9) to expedite and optimize the blocking of websites operating fixed-odds betting illegally.
The main objective of the measure is to establish a swift and direct flow of information between the institutions, reducing operational costs and strengthening oversight in the sector. Since October 11, when blocking began, more than 5,200 illegal websites have already been taken down.
The rapid growth of the online betting market has presented regulatory challenges in Brazil. Many platforms operate clandestinely without even applying for legal authorization, violating the legal regulations proposed by the Federal Government and exposing consumers to financial risks. The ACT is designed to tackle these irregularities in an integrated manner, utilizing technology and efficient communication between the agencies.
The regulation process for fixed-odds betting was solidified in 2024 through the publication of various rules establishing strict criteria for legal operations in Brazil. These measures ensure greater legal security and transparency in the sector, creating a healthy competitive environment. Starting January 1, 2025, the regulated market will officially operate, requiring all licensed betting platforms to include “.bet.br” in their domains, facilitating user identification and reinforcing platform credibility.
One of the first tasks outlined in the agreement is the creation of a detailed Work Plan, which specifies operational procedures and defines communication flows to be adopted. This plan will serve as the foundation for improving existing activities, ensuring greater efficiency in joint actions.
How the Blocking Works
The SPA identifies and catalogs irregular websites, determining their blockage based on administrative analysis. These decisions are then sent to Anatel, which acts as the sectoral regulator and technical intermediary, ensuring that the orders are passed on to internet service providers for execution. The process is conducted entirely online using Federal Government systems, ensuring security, traceability, and agility.
After receiving the list of illegal betting sites, Anatel employs a methodology that considers access and connectivity infrastructure to ensure effective blockages. The agency informs SPA upon completing the measures, closing a transparent and traceable communication loop.
According to Regis Dudena, Secretary of Prizes and Betting at the MF, fast electronic communication and clearly defined roles enable effective action against irregularities, prioritizing the protection of bettors. “Anatel has already been a significant partner since we intensified efforts to combat illegality. Now, with the ACT, this relationship will become even more seamless and efficient, a win for the country in addressing the challenges posed by opportunistic and malicious groups in the betting sector,” he stated.
Anatel President Carlos Baigorri emphasized the importance of the partnership for ensuring effective blockages. “The Agreement will allow for a streamlined process to execute the blockages. We recognize the challenge of preventing Brazilians from accessing illegal betting sites, and for this reason, cooperation is essential to ensure the blockages are carried out as quickly as possible by telecommunications service operators.
As a State agency, we have the duty to combat illicit practices that create competitive imbalances and violate our laws,” he said.
Editor: @_fonta www.zonadeazar.com
