Brazil launches international crackdown procedure against illegal operators

Brazil has shifted from site blocking to financial enforcement, with authorities now targeting the payment chains that keep illegal gambling operators running. For PSPs, acquirers, and banks, the important part is obvious: this is no longer just about blacklisting domains, but about tracing and freezing money flows.

1. IBJR president Carlos Lima said the mission is not only to block websites, but to go after the people financing illegal gambling, both inside Brazil and abroad. The institute also wants authorities to block payment channels used by illegal operators and hold influencers and platforms accountable for promoting them.
2. Brazil already has coordination with Interpol. The Federal Police takes part in Interpol’s task force on match-fixing and illegal gambling, while the country also operates DRAME, the Unit for Combating Illegal Betting and Sports Manipulation, and SEAAP, the Betting Analysis Service.
3. Finance Minister warned that authorities will track the money flows of illegal platforms and will be able to seize their assets. That is the part payment providers need to watch closely: enforcement is moving from digital access restrictions to financial controls.
4. The restrictions already apply to transfers via Pix and TED, as well as payments made through bank slips. The Attorney General’s Office also plans to seize the accounts of illegal bookmakers and transfer those funds to public security authorities.