Rio Government Cracks Down on Gambling Platforms and Influencers in New Oversight Push

Authorities in Rio de Janeiro are stepping up pressure on the online gambling industry. More than 300 companies and individuals connected to betting platforms have received official notifications, with demands to prove they comply with Brazilian consumer protection laws. The move marks a renewed effort by state regulators to tighten controls following months of national debate over betting activities.

Good to know

• Over 300 entities connected to gambling were notified by Rio’s consumer protection agency.
• Virginia Fonseca was among 16 names listed in the rejected CPI das Bets report.
• Brazil’s Senate received 17 new bills to increase oversight after the investigation ended.

The State Department of Consumer Protection, working alongside Procon-RJ, issued the notices with a 10-day deadline. Those contacted must show they follow rules covering responsible advertising, consumer transparency, protection for minors, and proper customer support. They are also expected to prove they use tools that help prevent compulsive or excessive gambling behavior.

Entities that fail to meet the requirements may face administrative action and financial penalties. Targets include influencers, major betting platforms, tech companies, and ad agencies—many of whom were linked to the recent CPI das Bets, Brazil’s Senate investigation into the betting industry.

Among those flagged is Virginia Fonseca, a well-known influencer. Her name appeared in the now-rejected final report of the CPI, which had proposed indictments for 16 individuals involved in gambling promotion and sponsorship.

The regulatory pressure comes as Brazil’s Senate continues shaping a stricter legal framework for online betting. Since the CPI concluded, lawmakers have received 17 new proposals aimed at improving oversight. These bills focus on player verification, advertising limits, and new criminal classifications for misconduct related to online gambling.

Together, the federal proposals and Rio’s local enforcement show that Brazil is not slowing down in its efforts to make online gambling safer and more accountable.

The post Rio Government Cracks Down on Gambling Platforms and Influencers in New Oversight Push appeared first on iGaming.org.