Brazil has taken a significant step in regulating data privacy for minors by imposing a fine of over 153 million reais (equivalent to nearly $30 million) on ByteDance, the parent company of TikTok. This action underscores the country’s commitment to enforcing data protection laws, particularly concerning children’s online privacy.
The fine was issued by Brazil’s data protection authority, which cited TikTok for violating privacy laws by collecting and processing the personal data of children and teenagers without obtaining the necessary legal consent or implementing adequate safeguards. These infractions were noted in both user account activities and guest browsing sessions.
Although the decision allows ByteDance a 10-day period to appeal, the regulatory body has also mandated the removal of all improperly acquired data and has demanded a comprehensive plan from TikTok to enhance its protective measures for minors.
In a parallel development, the same regulatory authority recently suggested halting live broadcasts on Discord following its association with a suicide incident. This reflects a broader governmental and judicial effort in Brazil, spearheaded by President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva’s administration and the country’s Supreme Court, to better regulate internet use among minors.
Efforts to regulate online platforms and protect young users are not unique to Brazil. Similar initiatives are being undertaken in other nations, including Australia, Canada, and Indonesia. Within Brazil, the first lady, Rosângela Lula da Silva, also known as Janja, has been vocal about her concerns. On August 6, she advocated for taking Discord offline due to the aforementioned case and has consistently criticized TikTok for its insufficient protective measures for children and teenagers.
