AGU comunicou ao STF não é possível impedir apostas em bets com Bolsa Família
Supremo Tribunal Federal (STF). (Imagem: Agência Brasil / Antônio Cruz)

The Federal Attorney General’s Office (AGU) informed the Federal Supreme Court (STF) that the federal government is finding it difficult to prevent the use of Bolsa Família and Continuous Payment Benefit (BPC) resources on betting websites.

Thus, last Friday (13), the AGU asked the STF for clarification on the decision to block the use of social benefits in betting games. The AGU alleges a lack of technical means to identify the origin of resources in beneficiaries’ accounts.

Mixed accounts complicate tracking

AGU argues that bank accounts used by beneficiaries of social programs are not exclusive to these resources. According to the agency, these accounts also receive other sources of income, which makes it impossible to exclusively track amounts coming from Bolsa Família or BPC.

Blocking or limiting these accounts, according to the AGU, would represent an invasion of citizens’ privacy. Furthermore, there are no clear mechanisms that allow resources from social benefits to be separated from other deposits.

Among the solutions presented, the AGU suggested an unrestricted ban on the use of debit cards in online betting. However, he acknowledged that this measure would have limited scope. Bettors could use other forms of payment, such as Pix or credit cards, which would make the blocking ineffective.

Another point raised by the AGU was the need for clarification on the regulation of bets made in states that have already regularized this activity. The lack of clear guidelines makes it difficult to implement national measures to restrict the use of social benefits on these sites.

STF expands debate on advertising and economic impact of betting

Thus, in November, the STF confirmed Minister Luiz Fux‘s injunction, prohibiting online betting advertising for children and teenagers. The decision came after a request from the CNC (National Confederation of Commerce), which highlighted the negative impacts of these games on the economy and vulnerable populations.

The AGU also asked the Supreme Court to establish a reasonable deadline for implementing measures and indicate effective ways to comply with the determination. For now, there is no forecast for the judgment of this request.

As the sector advances, concerns are emerging about the social and economic impacts, particularly in relation to the most vulnerable groups.

Therefore, the discussion remains open, and the outcome will depend on the STF’s guidelines and the policies adopted by the federal government to face this scenario.