APAJO Reports Influencers and Operators Over Illegal Gambling

The Portuguese Online Gambling and Betting Association (APAJO) is cracking down on illegal gambling advertisements by reporting several influencers and operators to the police. As part of its commitment to safeguarding Portuguese players, APAJO warns the public about the risks associated with unlicensed sites and urges influencers to steer clear of promoting these platforms. With up to 41% of Portuguese players gambling on illegal sites, APAJO’s recent actions highlight the need for strict enforcement and public awareness. Discover how APAJO’s decisive steps are reshaping the fight against unauthorized online gambling in Portugal.

Portuguese Gambling Association Takes Legal Action Against Influencers and Operators Over Illegal Ads

The Portuguese Online Gambling and Betting Association (APAJO) has escalated its fight against illegal gambling ads, recently filing criminal complaints against a group of influencers and eight gambling operators for promoting unlicensed platforms. This proactive approach is part of APAJO’s broader mission to curb the presence of illegal gambling in Portugal and ensure that players are only engaging with licensed, regulated platforms.

APAJO’s latest move targets five influencers who allegedly promoted unlicensed gambling sites to their followers, directly violating Portuguese gambling laws. Those reported include well-known figures like Numeiro, Cláudia Nayara, ritinhayoutuber, GODMOTA, and Bruno Savate. Additionally, APAJO filed complaints against gambling operators Betify, Monro, Weiss, BC.Game, Stake, Wolfi, Starda, and Vem Bet, which have been accused of illegally advertising their services to the Portuguese market.

Key Points of APAJO’s Crackdown on Illegal Gambling

1. Protecting the Public from Illegal Platforms
   APAJO is raising public awareness around the dangers of illegal gambling. According to APAJO’s recent study, only 37.7% of Portuguese players betting on illegal sites are aware they are doing so. Many players are unaware of the legal status of these platforms, exposing them to potential risks, such as unprotected transactions and lack of customer recourse. By promoting licensed gambling sites, APAJO aims to create a safer environment for Portuguese bettors and minimize the influence of offshore operators.
2. Holding Influencers and Affiliates Accountable
   Influencers have a significant impact on consumer behavior, and APAJO is calling on them to avoid promoting unlicensed sites. Under Portugal’s Online Gaming and Betting Legal Regime, anyone who promotes gambling without a proper license, including influencers, can be held legally responsible. Ricardo Domingues, president of APAJO, emphasizes the need for transparency, urging influencers and media to clearly indicate which sites are legal to help players make informed decisions. This move reflects APAJO’s broader commitment to protecting consumers and promoting responsible gambling practices.
3. Aligning with Portuguese Gambling Laws
   APAJO’s recent legal actions align closely with Portuguese gambling regulations, which strictly prohibit advertising and promotion of unlicensed gambling operators. The Portuguese Gaming Commission maintains a list of licensed operators, and any individual or company directing traffic to non-licensed sites risks prosecution. APAJO warns that ignorance of the law is not a defense, and promoting illegal gambling is a punishable offense, whether intentional or not. The association is committed to supporting the police by actively monitoring for violations and reporting them to authorities.

The Growing Concern of Illegal Gambling in Portugal

According to APAJO’s annual study, 41% of Portuguese players engage with illegal gambling sites. The issue is even more pronounced among younger people, with 52.1% of players aged 18 to 34 reportedly betting on unlicensed platforms. This trend highlights a pressing need for greater awareness, clearer information, and stricter enforcement to direct players toward legal, regulated gambling options. APAJO stresses the importance of media and public figures in helping shift consumer behavior by clarifying which sites are licensed and safe to use.

APAJO’s Call to Action for Portuguese Media and Influencers

Ricardo Domingues has publicly called on the Portuguese media to provide accurate and clear information about legal gambling options to help channel players towards licensed platforms. “It is critical that the Portuguese media are clear and accurate with the information provided about the sector,” Domingues stated. By aligning with APAJO’s mission, media and influencers can play an instrumental role in reducing exposure to illegal gambling advertisements and redirecting players to licensed platforms, where they have the protection and oversight provided by Portuguese law.

APAJO’s actions reflect a strong commitment to tackling illegal gambling and promoting a safer, more transparent gaming environment in Portugal. By holding influencers and operators accountable, the association reinforces the importance of responsible advertising and compliance with Portuguese gambling laws. As APAJO continues its efforts, supported by legal action and public awareness campaigns, it aims to create a gaming ecosystem that prioritizes player safety, reduces exposure to unlicensed sites, and encourages responsible gambling practices. Through these efforts, APAJO is not only defending the integrity of the Portuguese gambling market but also paving the way for a more regulated and secure environment for all players.