Brazil’s Federal Public Prosecutor’s Office (MPF) has opened an investigation into allegations that influencers are promoting illegal betting platforms after the country’s ban on online betting.
Among those under scrutiny are Davi Brito, winner of the 24th season of Big Brother Brasil, the country’s biggest reality show, previously sponsored by Betano, his sister Raquel Brito, who appeared on reality show A Fazenda and former A Fazenda contestant Bia Miranda, who was already investigated for illegal betting promotion.
According to the Federal Prosecutor’s Office for Citizens’ Rights report, influencers shared links while describing the platforms as word-guessing or entertainment games rather than betting sites. However, users accessing the links were reportedly directed to games requiring them to wager money.
In one post, Davi Brito allegedly described an illegal betting platform as “cool experience.” In another example, Bia Miranda promoted a platform by claiming it was not a betting site, writing: “You have to complete the word to win.”
The report said the MPF had also received complaints involving smaller influencers who previously promoted licensed betting operators. Investigators are examining whether some switched to illegal platforms to maintain their earnings after the prohibition.
The investigation comes amid a wider crackdown on unauthorised gambling. Brazil’s Finance Ministry has blocked more than 11,000 illegal betting websites since the ban was introduced, including at least one platform allegedly promoted by Raquel Brito.
David Brito was one of the influencers (literally) crying because of the ban.
Prosecutors suspect that some influencers used everyday Instagram Stories, including humorous videos and casual conversations, to promote the links while attempting to avoid detection
