Brazil’s Ministry of Finance, through the Secretariat of Prizes and Betting (SPA), has granted a 30-day extension for betting operators to comply with regulations that prevent individuals benefitting from government social programs, like Bolsa Família and BPC, from accessing betting platforms. This decision, announced in the Diário Oficial da União, aims to give operators more time to implement systems that align with national social protection efforts.
Originally, betting operators were required to halt new registrations for these beneficiaries by December 1. The new Normative Instruction SPA/MF No. 24/2025, signed by SPA Secretary Regis Anderson Dudena, postpones this requirement by an additional 30 days. This extension modifies Normative Instruction No. 22, issued on September 30, 2025, ensuring a smoother transition as companies integrate a government verification platform into their operations.
The Ministry of Finance stated that the measure provides “additional time for the sector to fully implement the required data verification mechanisms to guarantee operational reliability and compliance with privacy standards.”
The social welfare programs in Brazil impact a substantial demographic. According to Pnad data from May 2024, these programs assist roughly 9.4% of the population, equating to approximately 20.1 million people. Industry insiders note that these beneficiaries could constitute 20% to 30% of the total user base on betting sites. In some cases, they contribute up to 15% of certain operators’ gross revenue, creating concerns about the economic repercussions of enforcing this ban.
The policy mandates that betting sites verify users through the Government Betting Management System at two crucial points: account creation and the first login each day. This process involves cross-referencing the user’s tax identification number (CPF) with a governmental database listing social program beneficiaries. Users flagged as “Restricted – Social Program” must be denied service or, if already active, must have their accounts closed within three days. Operators are required to notify these users within one day and allow up to two days for the withdrawal of remaining funds.
Despite the government’s intention to protect public welfare funds from misuse, the policy has generated unease among betting operators and related associations. The National Association of Games and Lotteries (ANJL) raised concerns over data security and the potential expansion of the unregulated betting market. A survey commissioned by ANJL revealed that 45% of beneficiaries would continue betting even if blocked, potentially migrating to unauthorized platforms that lack proper oversight.
Automated blocking mechanisms, they argue, could unintentionally push players toward illicit markets, undermining both regulatory objectives and efforts to promote responsible gaming. ANJL suggests that enhancing player education, responsible gambling tools, and financial literacy initiatives would be more effective solutions for addressing the issue.
The regulatory measure aligns with Brazil’s Supreme Federal Court’s precautionary decisions in the Direct Actions of Unconstitutionality-ADIs 7721 and 7723, as well as directives from the Federal Court of Accounts in process TC 023.126/2024-8. Both bodies highlighted the necessity of preventing the allocation of public welfare resources towards gambling activities.
As the SPA enforces this extended timeline, the coming weeks will prove crucial for operators striving to comply with the new requirements while maintaining customer trust. Meanwhile, the government continues to balance social protection with market regulation in one of the world’s fastest-growing betting industries. Industry observers note the importance of strategic adaptation during this period, as the sector navigates these regulatory changes and their broader implications.
Erik Agary is a seasoned writer at True Games Reviews, specializing in gaming, casino games, and interactive entertainment. With a passion for all things digital, Erik dives deep into the latest trends and developments in the gaming world, offering insightful reviews and detailed analysis. His expertise spans across multiple gaming platforms, ensuring comprehensive coverage that resonates with both novice and experienced gamers alike.
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