The AGU has formally warned Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, after finding hundreds of active ads promoting online gambling platforms not authorised to operate in Brazil. Under Brazilian law, gaming operators must secure approval from the Ministry of Finance, typically using “.bet.br” domains. The AGU’s investigation revealed multiple non-compliant profiles, raising concerns about potential links to tax evasion, money laundering, consumer fraud, and other illicit activities.
Meta has been given 48 hours to remove these ads and avoid promoting unauthorised gambling operators in the future. The AGU cited a Supreme Federal Court ruling confirming that platforms can be held liable for illegal content in paid promotions if they fail to act promptly. Despite Meta’s recent promises to strengthen its gambling ad policies, the AGU noted gaps in its verification processes remain.
