Operation Tiger III busts illegal betting network, São Paulo
The Civil Police of São Paulo, through the Sector for Combating Corruption, Organized Crime, and Money Laundering (SECCOLD), carried out an offensive against online casino platforms operating clandestinely in Brazil. The investigation focuses on a group of digital influencers accused of promoting betting sites without the proper authorization from the Ministry of Finance.
The so-called "Operation Tiger III" included a series of raids at 20 different addresses spread across six municipalities in inland São Paulo: Piracicaba, Capivari, São Pedro, Americana, Limeira, and Cordeirópolis. As a result of the proceedings, authorities confiscated seven cars, two motorcycles, jewelry, cash, and electronic devices linked to the group's illicit activities.
Modus operandi and user acquisition
According to investigators, those involved were part of an organized structure with divided tasks and standardized content to attract followers. The strategy was based on:
- Display of luxury: Influencers showcased high-end items and alleged fake prizes to induce the public to register on the platforms.
- Fantasy of winning: An image of constant success was sold to motivate new users to join the illegal system.
- Commissions for losses: The Police maintain that promoters received payments proportional to the financial losses of followers who used their recommendations.
Impact of the clandestine market in Brazil
The magnitude of the illegal sector represents a critical challenge for the Brazilian state. According to data from the consulting firm LCA and research presented by the Esfera Institute, it is estimated that:
- Market share: The clandestine sector accounts for between 41% and 51% of the total betting market in the country.
- Economic movement: This illegal activity mobilizes annually between R$ 26 billion (US$ 5.02 billion) and R$ 40 billion (US$ 7.72 billion).
- Tax evasion: The state fails to collect approximately R$ 10.8 billion (US$ 2.08 billion) each year due to the lack of control over these operators.
Specialists in the field warn that operating outside the legal framework established by Brazilian legislation carries severe risks for users, such as the absence of personal data protection, lack of access controls for minors, and technical difficulties in withdrawing funds. Currently, only operators duly authorized by the government can offer online betting services in Brazilian territory.
Tags: Brazil, casino influencers Brazil, betting influencers Brazil, illegal casinos Brazil