The Secretariat of Prizes and Bets (SPA) in Brazil has announced new regulations allowing bettors to self-exclude from gambling platforms. These rules, published as Normative Ordinance No 2,579 and Normative Instruction No 31, aim to enhance the protection of bettors and promote responsible gambling practices across the country.
By the close of 2025, Brazil expects to launch a centralised self-exclusion platform developed by the Federal Data Processing Service. This significant move allows bettors to voluntarily block themselves from betting platforms, either indefinitely or for a specified period. The system offers two options: bettors can exclude themselves from individual operators or all federally licensed betting platforms collectively.
Additionally, betting operators must introduce mandatory self-limits on both time and wagering amounts as part of the registration process. These measures form part of the SPA’s regulatory plan for 2025-26, which was outlined back in April. At that time, the SPA declared the implementation of a national self-exclusion platform as the most critical agenda item.
Regis Dudena, head of the SPA, emphasized that safeguarding players remains the regulator’s top priority. He expressed confidence in the self-exclusion scheme’s potential to succeed. Dudena noted that the initiative gives individuals the option to reduce their betting exposure in a centralized and secure manner, including limiting their exposure to betting-related advertising. This measure, Dudena said, places Brazil at the forefront globally in terms of protecting its citizens.
Operators in Brazil now face a 30-day deadline to comply with the new self-exclusion requirements. They must verify users’ status in the central self-exclusion database via Sigap, the country’s betting management system, using the individual’s CPF numbers. Verification is mandatory during account registration, at each daily login, and every 15 days for active users. If a user is listed as “Blocked – Centralised Self-Exclusion,” operators must immediately stop accepting bets from that user and close their account within three days. Any remaining funds or the value of open bets should be returned to the bettor within two days, with a record of such communications maintained for at least five years.
Importantly, operators are prohibited from engaging in any active communication, targeted advertising, or direct notifications to users about the possibility of readmission into the betting system. This ensures that bettors who choose to self-exclude are not subjected to temptations or pressures to return prematurely.
Operators must integrate with the centralized self-exclusion system within 30 days of the publication of these new measures. They have been granted a 90-day period to update their systems, implement self-limit tools, and revise their registration forms to accommodate these changes. The self-limit tools empower bettors to set personal betting limits—daily, weekly, or monthly—either by time or wagered amount. Furthermore, users can opt to receive alerts or face blocks if they surpass their set limits during betting sessions. Bettors also have the option to pause their accounts temporarily; they will retain access but will be unable to place bets.
The introduction of Brazil’s centralized self-exclusion system is a noteworthy development in the country’s regulatory landscape. It reflects a growing international trend toward implementing more robust responsible gambling measures. Such measures aim to empower bettors to manage their gambling habits effectively and reduce the potential for harmful gambling behavior.
However, not everyone agrees with the blanket approach of a centralized system. Some industry stakeholders argue that this could place undue pressure on operators, particularly those already committed to responsible gambling practices. They suggest that a more tailored approach, allowing operators some flexibility in implementing self-exclusion measures, could potentially achieve better outcomes without overburdening the system.
Despite these differing perspectives, the SPA remains steadfast in its commitment to protecting Brazilian bettors. The proposed regulations underscore a proactive stance towards minimizing gambling-related harm and ensuring a safe betting environment. As the country prepares for the rollout of this new system, stakeholders will be closely monitoring its implementation and impact on the gaming industry and its participants.
In this context, Brazil’s move can be seen as part of a broader shift toward increased regulation in the global betting industry. Countries worldwide are recognizing the need for stringent controls to safeguard the interests of bettors and promote healthier gambling environments. Brazil’s initiative could well set a precedent for other countries looking to enhance their own responsible gambling measures.
While the debate over the best methods to promote responsible betting continues, the introduction of the centralized self-exclusion system in Brazil is a clear signal of the country’s dedication to leading with a strong regulatory framework. As stakeholders adapt to these changes, Brazil’s example may inspire similar efforts in other regions, potentially shaping the future of responsible gambling on an international scale.
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