The number of lawsuits involving online betting at the Rio de Janeiro Court of Justice (TJRJ) has increased by 1,087% in two years, rising from 58 cases in 2024 to 689 in 2026.
The disputes cover a range of issues, including winnings allegedly left unpaid, changes to betting odds, blocked accounts and withdrawals, and contractual clauses considered abusive by players.
The increase comes amid growing scrutiny of Brazil’s gambling market, following the Federal Government’s measure prohibiting the operation, offering and advertising of online betting and games across the country.
The companies facing the largest number of cases at the Rio court are Kaizen Gaming Brasil, HS do Brasil and Ana Gaming Brasil, which operate the Betano, Bet365 and 7K Bet brands, respectively. Collectively, bettors are seeking more than BR20m ($3.7m) from the three companies.
Ana Gaming said the volume of lawsuits reflects the scale of its operations and active user base, rather than the merits or outcomes of individual cases.
The company added that it presents its defence in proceedings and complies with all judicial decisions.
Peterson Barroso Simão, a judge on the TJRJ’s Second Criminal Chamber, said the scale of gambling activity made its effects on the courts unsurprising.
“We have to recognize that certain practices can produce risks that require information, advertising limits, protection mechanisms and stricter oversight. This has been the case at various points in history,” he said.
He also noted that establishing a direct legal link between betting platforms and longer-term consequences, such as mounting debt, family breakdown and worsening psychological problems, can be difficult.
Besides Ana Gaming, the other mentioned companies didn’t comment on it
