More than 600,000 Brazilians opt for betting self-exclusion
The rapid growth of online sports betting in Brazil has created new entertainment opportunities, but it has also raised concerns about debt, compulsive behaviour and users’ mental health. In this context, a tool created by the Federal Government has gained considerable attention when it comes to player protection.
Launched in December 2025, the Self-Exclusion Platform has already recorded more than 600,000 voluntary blocking requests from users of authorised betting sites in the country, according to a statement published by the Ministry of Finance itself. The initiative, coordinated by the Secretariat of Prizes and Betting within the Ministry of Finance, allows any citizen to request, through a single application, the simultaneous blocking of access to all regulated betting operators.
As of early June 2026, the platform had registered 603,000 self-exclusion requests, a figure representing a significant share of users who recognise the need to limit or interrupt their relationship with betting.
What is self-exclusion?
Self-exclusion is a mechanism already used in several countries to help individuals who wish to step away from betting either temporarily or permanently. Under the Brazilian model, the process is centralised. By providing their CPF (Brazilian taxpayer identification number) on the platform, users are prevented from accessing authorised betting websites, creating new accounts and even receiving targeted advertising related to the sector. The aim is to create a barrier between the player and betting operators when individuals believe their gambling habits are causing personal, emotional or financial harm.
The measure was regulated under Ministry of Finance rules, which also established obligations for companies in the sector, ensuring that exclusion requests are respected by all authorised operators in the country.
Mental health is the main concern
Among users who opted for self-exclusion, the main motivation is directly related to psychological well-being. According to platform data, 41 per cent of registered users stated that they had lost control over gambling or noticed negative impacts on their mental health.
The figures reinforce concerns already observed in several countries. International health organisations warn that compulsive gambling can trigger symptoms similar to those associated with other behavioural disorders, including anxiety, stress, mood changes and difficulties in family relationships.
To assist users, the platform provides information about warning signs, risk factors and guidance on where to seek treatment within the public healthcare system. The system also directs citizens to services linked to the Unified Health System (SUS), expanding access to specialised support.
Financial difficulties also drive exclusion requests
Although mental health concerns are the leading reason for self-exclusion, financial issues also rank among the main factors behind account blocking requests. According to official data, 12 per cent of users cited financial problems as a determining factor in abandoning betting activities. Another 18 per cent reported seeking protection against the possible misuse of their personal data on betting platforms. In addition, 13 per cent said they made the decision voluntarily as a preventive measure, while 14 per cent preferred not to disclose their reasons.
Financial education specialists note that the growth of online betting has coincided with increased discussions about over-indebtedness. Although betting is a legal and regulated activity, many consumers end up treating gambling as a source of supplementary income, which can create unrealistic expectations and lead to significant losses.
In this context, some awareness initiatives have been considered essential to encourage responsible gaming practices.
Prevention and guidance tools
In addition to account blocking, the Centralised Self-Exclusion Platform offers prevention-focused resources. One of the highlights is the Mental Health Self-Assessment, developed to help users identify potential signs of problematic behaviour. The questionnaire asks simple questions about betting habits and allows users to assess the level of risk associated with their gambling behaviour. Depending on the result, the system encourages seeking professional support.
The platform also provides a free course focused on financial education and conscious consumption. The content addresses the behavioural aspects of betting and presents strategies to avoid economic vulnerability.
The initiative was developed in partnership with the National Consumer Secretariat (Senacon), linked to the Ministry of Justice, and the University of Brasília (UnB). Upon completion of the course, participants receive certification.
Temporary or permanent exclusion
Users can choose different periods of exclusion from betting activities. The minimum period is one month, and the maximum is one year, although there is also the option of self-exclusion for an indefinite period.
The data show that most Brazilians who use the tool prefer a more restrictive form of exclusion. Around 69 per cent of requests were made for an indefinite period, while 31 per cent opted for fixed periods. Among these users, a 12-month exclusion period was the most commonly selected.
Another important aspect is that the decision cannot be reversed before the selected exclusion period expires, a measure specifically designed to prevent impulsive decisions and ensure greater effectiveness of the player protection mechanism.
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