During the session, historical aspects, risks, irregularities and the bettor’s rights as a consumer —under the Consumer Defense Code (CDC)— will be addressed. The goal is to warn the public about the main pitfalls of this market and guide them toward safer and more conscious behavior when facing betting offers.
The lecture is based on complaints received by Procon-SP from consumers who place bets on both authorized platforms and websites operating irregularly in the country. The main reported problems will be discussed, such as difficulties withdrawing funds, lack of transparency in rules, and misleading advertising.
Another key topic is the risk of over-indebtedness. The promise of high winnings —although rare— leads many consumers to continue betting repeatedly even after financial losses, which may compromise essential resources for their livelihood.
By the end of the session, participants will be better prepared to identify and avoid pitfalls, understand the financial and emotional impacts of betting, and recognize that betting is not an investment but rather a high-risk, uncertain activity. It is worth noting that the lecture will become part of Procon-SP’s regular calendar and will be held monthly for consumers.
Campaign and handbook
This initiative is part of a broader set of actions developed by Procon-SP on this topic. This year, the agency launched a public awareness campaign on social media — “#ApostadorÉConsumidor”—conducted a survey on consumer behavior in the betting sector, and also developed a handbook in partnership with the São Paulo Bar Association (OAB SP) titled “Consumer Rights in Gaming and Sports Betting in Brazil.”
The material was created to explain consumer rights, the main sector regulations, and especially to teach how to identify signs that betting may be causing emotional or financial harm, such as gambling addiction. The handbook is available here.
Service:
Lecture: “Online Gaming and Betting”
Date: November 17
Time: 2:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Location: Online – Microsoft Teams
Registration: https://www.procon.sp.gov.br/palestras/
Source: GMB
