Brazil creates cyber laboratory through Anatel, Treasury, and ANJL partnership to block unauthorized betting platforms

Brazil took a new step in the fight against irregular betting last Thursday (25) with the signing of a cooperation agreement between the National Telecommunications Agency (Anatel), the Prizes and Bets Secretariat of the Ministry of Treasury (SPA/MF), and the National Association of Games and Lotteries (ANJL).

The agreement sets the foundation for the creation of both a virtual and physical cyber laboratory designed to block illegal betting websites more efficiently and transparently.

Anatel president Carlos Baigorri said the collaborative approach was essential. “Combating illegal betting requires a joint effort from the government and the regulated sector," he stated. "It’s crucial to create effective technological barriers, but also to raise awareness not to bet on illegal platforms. This agreement is a decisive step in that direction.”

Edson de Holanda, advisor at Anatel, emphasized that regulation brings wider benefits beyond enforcement. “It’s not just about combating illegality from a criminal perspective, but also about allowing the resources generated by this activity to be returned in the form of revenue and public policies," he commented.

Under the partnership, ANJL will support the development of the laboratories, providing Anatel with advanced technical resources to ensure greater speed and reliability in blocking unauthorized platforms. The initiative builds on the existing Technical Cooperation Agreement (ACT MF No. 45/2024) between Anatel and SPA, which facilitates a rapid flow of information between the institutions to block illegal fixed-odds betting sites.

Régis Dudena, Secretary of Prizes and Betting at the Ministry of Treasury, highlighted the convergence between state regulators and industry stakeholders. “Tackling illegal betting is a priority," he said. "Having the support of a representative entity like the National Association of Games and Lotteries is important to strengthen Anatel’s operations and ensure a more honest and fair market.”

The new laboratories will be responsible for monitoring cyber vulnerabilities, conducting studies on irregular practices by telecommunications providers, and carrying out technical analyses to support the enforcement of administrative and judicial orders. The physical facility, located at Anatel’s headquarters, will also examine equipment used in illegal betting operations. The agreement is valid for 36 months and may be renewed.

ANJL’s legal director, Pietro Cardia Lorenzoni, underlined the association’s role in supporting oversight: “Our association’s principle is to support authorities in structuring the regulated sector by introducing best practices. Anatel’s experience in combating piracy is a benchmark, and we want to contribute effectively to this effort.”

Anatel’s Superintendent of Inspection, Gesiléa Teles, described the agreement as an advance in institutional integration. “The new Cooperation Agreement represents a step forward in this integration, as it aims to enhance the technical capabilities of the agencies involved in combating irregularities related to fixed-odds betting, ensuring stronger oversight in the sector," Teles said.