Brazil’s ANJL warn parents as teens dive into extreme betting

January 30, 2025

Brazil’s ANJL warn parents as teens dive into extreme betting

The National Association of Games and Lotteries (ANJL) in Brazil has issued a stern warning to parents and guardians about the risks of minors accessing online gambling platforms. In a press release on 28 January 2025, the ANJL reminded the public that only individuals aged 18 and over are permitted to use online betting sites.

To access these platforms, users are now obligated to provide their Individual Taxpayer Registration (CPF) number and undergo facial recognition checks to confirm their identity and age.

However, the ANJL expressed concerns that minors could bypass these age restrictions if parents and guardians allow them to use their personal information, which is a criminal offence.

ANJL President Plínio Lemos Jorge stressed that the responsibility lies with both the industry and families in preventing underage gambling, adding, “The Association has done its part in creating mechanisms to prevent access by minors. But awareness-raising actions also need to be embraced by those responsible for these people.”

Illegal websites erode trust

The proliferation of illegal gambling sites is a major issue in this regard. Unlike authorised platforms, unregulated operators often do not enforce age verification measures, allowing minors to easily access gambling content. Lemos Jorge pointed out, “For unauthorised websites, the reality is different. Children can access them without proper registration and are even encouraged to play.”

Leonardo Benites, the ANJL’s Communications Director, highlighted the importance of collective responsibility, saying, “Legitimate betting houses that adhere to regulation have no interest in children. But we all need to remain vigilant against those that don’t comply with the law and continue to protect children and young people.”

Betting numbers skyrocket

The issue of underage gambling in Brazil has been exacerbated by the rapid growth of online betting, with more than 52 million people reportedly participating in online gambling over the past five years.

This surge has raised alarm about the potential for gambling addiction, particularly among vulnerable groups such as minors.

The Brazilian government is actively working to regulate the sector, including blocking illegal gambling sites and introducing stricter measures for authorised operators. These actions are part of a broader effort to mitigate the risks of addiction and protect young people from the harmful effects of gambling.

The ANJL continues to advocate for stronger regulatory frameworks and public awareness campaigns to combat underage gambling. The association is calling for the creation of reporting mechanisms for illegal gambling sites and urging the government to enforce tougher penalties for operators who fail to meet age verification requirements.