Brazilian Influencer Couple Accused of Laundering $3.7 Million
The Brazilian police conducted a raid on November 11 targeting influencers Pedro Vitor and Aline Cavanellas in Lagoa Santa after allegations they laundered $3.7 million through promoting the slot Fortune Tiger by PG Soft.
Investigation Details
The couple, with a combined Instagram following of over 3.6 million, is accused of promoting illegal online gambling while showcasing a lavish lifestyle. They posted videos with fake winnings and encouraged followers to place bets with promises of easy earnings, while the actual funds went to offshore operators, allegedly running games with pre-programmed algorithms.
Financial and Property Evidence
Investigators identified suspicious money transfers totaling around $3.7 million and a portfolio of over 15 properties, including mansions and luxury homes. The raid also resulted in the seizure of seven cars, mobile phones, and documents.
Operational Scheme
According to the investigation, the influencers collaborated with offshore operators, whose servers were reportedly based in Malta, to manipulate the games and direct profits to themselves. Players following the couple’s advice were effectively losing while playing on pre-programmed systems.
- Promotion through Instagram with a combined following of over 3.6 million
- Posting videos with fake winnings to attract participants
- Profits from the game algorithms directed to offshore operators
- Encouraging followers to place real bets based on false promises
Legal Response
The couple’s lawyers deny all allegations, stating that Pedro Vitor and Aline Cavanellas did not operate betting platforms or engage in any illegal activity. The investigation is ongoing, with authorities examining the full network of involved influencers, operators, and foreign companies.
Brazilian authorities have conducted additional searches and continue collecting evidence to fully uncover the scheme and identify all those involved.