Esportes Gaming Brasil has outlined seven checks consumers can use to determine whether an online betting platform is legally operating in Brazil. The guidance comes as the country continues to strengthen oversight of its regulated betting market and combat illegal and fraudulent operators.
1. Check the Operator’s Licence
Since 1 January 2025, operators offering betting services nationally must be authorized by Brazil’s Secretariat of Prizes and Betting (SPA). Consumers should therefore verify the operator against the SPA’s official list rather than relying only on advertisements or search results.
2. Verify the .bet.br Domain
Authorized betting platforms use the .bet.br domain. However, Esportes Gaming Brasil warned that the domain should be treated as a first check rather than definitive proof that every aspect of a platform is legitimate.
3. Check Identity Verification
Regulated operators must verify customer identities and use authentication measures, including facial recognition with proof of life. These requirements help reduce underage access, identity misuse and fraud.
4. Review Payment Methods
Consumers should confirm that deposits and withdrawals use legitimate payment channels and that transactions are linked to a bank or payment account in the bettor’s own name.
5. Look for Responsible Gambling Tools
Legal platforms should provide tools such as betting limits, financial and time controls, and self-exclusion options. These features allow users to manage their activity and set personal limits.
6. Check Customer Support
Clear and accessible customer support is another important indicator. Consumers should be able to identify who operates the platform and find reliable channels for resolving account or payment issues.
7. Be Cautious of Unrealistic Offers
Promises of guaranteed profits, unusually generous bonuses or offers to recover previous losses should raise concerns. Fraudulent platforms can also imitate legitimate brands through copied websites, advertising and social media accounts.
Together, these checks can help Brazilian consumers distinguish licensed betting operators from illegal or fraudulent platforms, while highlighting the broader role of regulation in consumer protection.
