Procon-BA (Bahia Consumer Protection and Defense Program) guides consumers on essential precautions when participating in online betting. According to the agency, these precautions can save citizens from financial and emotional losses and even from the misuse of their personal data.
According to Procon-BA, the first step before placing a bet is to check whether the company is duly authorized. The Ministry of Treasury is responsible for authorization.
The Secretariat of Prizes and Bets (SPA) has updated the list of companies authorized to offer bets throughout the country. The Secretariat is linked to the Ministry of Treasury. Today, there are 79 companies with current authorization. Of these, 72 have authorizations issued by the Federal Government and seven based on court decisions. The consultation can be done directly on the Ministry’s website.
Procon-BA advises checking platform authorization
For Tiago Venâncio, superintendent of Procon-BA (Superintendence of Consumer Protection and Defense), it is important for the consumer to check where they are going to bet.
“Unauthorized platforms can expose users to risks such as fraud, loss of money, misuse of personal data, in addition to the absence of legal mechanisms for resolving conflicts, as these companies are not subject to consumer protection standards established by the country’s legislation,” he warned.
“The legalization and supervision of bookmakers are fundamental measures to protect consumers and curb abusive and illegal practices. Therefore, it is essential that the public knows about and only uses authorized platforms,” he stressed.
Furthermore, Venâncio also highlighted Procon-BA’s commitment to protecting consumer rights. To this end, the agency carries out educational actions and inspections that promote a safer and more transparent consumer environment.
“In addition to providing guidance on the safe use of platforms, we are publishing a list of companies regulated by the Federal Government to operate in the country,” added the superintendent. Procon-BA is linked to the Secretariat of Justice and Human Rights.
The so-called “Bets Law” — Law No. 14,790, of December 29, 2023 — regulated fixed-odds betting in the country, establishing guidelines for the operation of sports betting and online gaming. The legislation imposes technical, financial and security requirements on operating companies, in addition to measures to prevent money laundering, protect consumers and promote responsible gaming.
Authorized companies must operate exclusively through websites with the “.bet.br” domain. Failure to comply with the rules may result in sanctions, such as suspension or revocation of authorization.
