Brazil to Impose Stricter Controls on Online Betting Platforms

Brazil is set to introduce new restrictions on online betting platforms aimed at boosting consumer protection. The Secretariat of Prizes and Betting (SPA) is leading this effort with an ordinance expected to limit features like rapid wagering and autoplay. These measures follow a recognition of increasing gambling-related harms and will regulate the behavior of licensed operators closely.

Key Restrictions on Betting Features

The upcoming regulations will ban autoplay functions, thereby stopping platforms from making wagers without explicit customer actions. Features that encourage quick decision-making, such as countdown timers, will also be restricted. Additionally, platforms will be prevented from pre-filling or suggesting deposit and stake amounts, as well as banning coin-like sound effects and other audio-visual prompts that could incentivize prolonged play.

Potential Additional Measures

While the SPA has not yet released the draft ordinance, other potential rules include establishing a cooling-off period or minimum wager duration. These enhancements aim to curb impulsive betting behavior and provide more control to users during sessions. Furthermore, content that misleads customers into believing that success in betting depends on skill, rather than chance, will be banned.

Protecting Consumer Interests

The government plans to stop the display of major winners' rankings and discourage content like tutorials and statistics that imply betting is skill-based. Proposed measures will also address the ease of withdrawals and ensure promotions do not incentivize retaining funds in betting accounts. These provisions form part of the SPA’s broader strategy for controlling gambling-induced harm.

SPA’s Regulatory Priorities for 2026–27

In its 2026–27 agenda, the SPA emphasizes monitoring bettor-risk profiles and implementing stronger harm-prevention strategies. It envisions a system that allows users to monitor their gambling activities in an integrated manner. This system will help players better understand their betting habits and make informed decisions.

Industry Response to New Rules

At an ABRAJOGO event on August 7, industry stakeholders, including the Brazilian Association of Games and Esports (ABRAJOGO), discussed these anticipated regulations. ABRAJOGO intends to submit a formal proposal to the SPA, ensuring industry voices are considered in the regulatory process.

These anticipated changes reflect Brazil's commitment to mitigating gambling risks and fostering a safer online gaming environment. The details of the full ordinance will be crucial for operators preparing to adjust their platforms and practices.