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Brazilian authorities have identified 25.2 million users connected to illegal betting platforms, underlining the scale of the country’s unregulated gambling market despite the launch of a fully licensed betting framework. Recent industry and government reports show that illegal operators remain one of the biggest threats to the country’s gambling reform.

The figure highlights how deeply unlicensed bookmakers remain embedded in Brazil’s betting ecosystem, even as regulators continue expanding enforcement measures against unauthorized platforms.

Authorities Intensify Enforcement Against Illegal Operators

Brazil’s Secretariat of Prizes and Betting (SPA), working alongside telecom regulator Anatel, has already blocked more than 25,000 illegal betting websites during the first year of the regulated market. Authorities have also expanded financial surveillance to disrupt payment flows linked to offshore operators.

The crackdown has gone beyond websites. Regulators also investigated hundreds of social media accounts and influencers suspected of promoting illegal bookmakers, resulting in dozens of account removals and content takedowns.

At the same time, Brazil’s government is reportedly preparing new anti-organized crime operations targeting illegal betting networks and related money laundering activity.

Licensed Market Continues Growing, But Illegal Sector Persists

Brazil officially launched its fully regulated online betting market in January 2025, and by the end of the year 79 licensed operators were active in the country. These legal operators generated approximately R$37 billion in gross gaming revenue during their first year.

However, analysts warn that a large portion of betting activity still flows through unlicensed operators, with some estimates suggesting the grey and black market may account for nearly half of total betting volume.

The continued popularity of illegal bookmakers remains a major challenge for regulators, especially as major events like the 2026 FIFA World Cup drive higher betting demand.

Brazil’s Regulatory Battle Is Far From Over

Industry experts say Brazil’s ability to shift players from illegal to licensed operators will largely determine the long-term success of its gambling reform.

Player protection, payment blocking, domain enforcement, and stricter advertising controls are expected to remain central tools in the government’s strategy.

For operators, the situation highlights both the enormous size of Brazil’s betting market and the fierce competition still coming from offshore and unregulated brands.

Source: https://bookmaker-ratings.ru/news/categories/business-gambling-gaming/braziliya-vyyavila-25-2-mln-pol-zovateley-nelegal-nyh-bukmekerov/