Rio de Janeiro Takes Legal Action Against Gambling Operators Over Safer Play Violations
Legal Action Initiated to Enforce Safer Gambling Standards
The Public Defender’s Office of Rio de Janeiro has launched a lawsuit against multiple gambling operators accused of failing to comply with safer gambling regulations. These companies have reportedly neglected essential player protection practices and violated rules designed to minimize harm to gamblers.
Seeking $54 Million in Compensation
The lawsuit targets 43 online sports betting companies that allegedly did not adequately protect consumers or include mandated safer gambling messages in their products and advertising. The Public Defender’s Office claims these breaches have caused harm warranting financial restitution.
This group includes both national and international operators, such as Bet365, Betano, Betfair, Esportes da Sorte, Estrela Bet, F12 Bet, Pixbet, Superbet, and Stake.
The office is demanding damages amounting to approximately $54 million, which is calculated as 1% of the operators’ monthly betting volume per data from Brazil’s Central Bank.
If awarded, these funds will be allocated to programs focusing on the treatment and prevention of gambling-related issues.
Beyond financial claims, the office advocates for Brazil to implement stricter safer gambling measures, including spending limits, mandatory cool-down periods for frequent bettors, and enhanced harm reduction strategies. It also calls for reducing the presence of sports betting advertisements and sponsorships due to their potential negative impact on vulnerable populations, including normalizing gambling behavior in youth and risking increased debt.
Impact of Weak Regulations on Vulnerable Populations
Officials from the Public Defender’s Office stress the urgency of enforcing responsible gambling practices to foster healthier habits and protect vulnerable Brazilians from harm.
Paulo Vinícius Cozzolino Abrahão, the chief public defender, pointed out that the lack of adequate regulation around gambling advertisements has led many Brazilians to mistakenly view gambling as a reliable investment.
Tathiane Campos, the office’s sub-coordinator, highlighted that betting disproportionately affects lower-income individuals, as the allure of wealth and luxury can easily influence those with fewer financial resources.