Brazil’s Collective Defense Institute has launched a significant legal action against the Brazilian divisions of TikTok, Kwai, and Meta Platforms, seeking 3 billion reais (approximately $525 million) for allegedly neglecting their responsibilities to safeguard minors on their platforms. This move underscores the increasing scrutiny of social media regulation in Brazil, particularly in light of a recent controversy involving Elon Musk and the Brazilian Supreme Court that resulted in substantial fines for social media companies.
The lawsuits, filed in the state of Minas Gerais, demand that these companies implement effective data protection measures and provide warnings regarding the mental health risks associated with excessive use of their platforms by children and teenagers. The legal action is grounded in various studies highlighting the potential harm caused by unsupervised social media use among younger audiences.
Lawyer Lillian Salgado, representing the plaintiffs, emphasised the urgent need for reforms in the way social media algorithms operate, specifically in how they handle data from users under 18. “It is crucial to ensure a safer, healthier experience for young users, similar to the standards already established in developed countries,” she stated.
In response to the lawsuits, Meta Platforms asserted its commitment to creating safe and age-appropriate experiences for young users, citing the development of over 50 tools and resources to support both teens and their guardians. The company also announced the upcoming launch of a “Teen Account” feature on Instagram in Brazil, aimed at restricting the accounts that teenagers can access.
While TikTok stated it had not been formally notified about the legal actions, Kwai did not provide an immediate response. This legal challenge could pave the way for stricter regulations on social media usage among minors in Brazil, reflecting a broader trend of increasing regulatory oversight in the digital space.
