Brazil Plans to Fine Anyone Who Tries to Use X via VPN
Published
Key Takeaways
- Access Restriction: Brazil fines X platform users nearly $9,000 daily for bypassing ban via VPN or technical workarounds.
- Legal Background: Ban follows X’s failure to appoint a legal representative and address disinformation concerns.
- User Impact: Brazilian users risk steep fines; X operations remain halted while authorities enforce strict compliance.
Brazil is taking a strict stance against Elon Musk’s social network X (formerly Twitter). The country has banned the platform entirely, and now authorities are warning that anyone who tries to access it using a VPN or other technical workarounds could face steep fines. The penalty could reach nearly $9,000 per day for violating the ban.
Background of the Ban
The move comes after Brazil’s government accused X of failing to curb disinformation on its platform. Earlier this year, Brazil ordered X to appoint a legal representative in the country within 24 hours. The company did not comply, and as a result, the social network was officially banned in Brazil.
Elon Musk called the ban “censorship,” but Brazilian authorities insist the action is necessary to enforce local regulations. X had already shut down its operations in the country earlier this year, making the ban more symbolic but also enforceable.
What This Means for Users
For people in Brazil, trying to bypass the ban using a VPN or other tools to access X could now be very costly. Authorities have made it clear that fines will apply per day of violation, which can add up quickly to thousands of dollars.
This step marks one of the strictest measures against a social media platform in recent years and underscores how seriously Brazil is treating digital compliance within its borders.
Ongoing Issues With X
The ban highlights ongoing controversies around X and its operations under Elon Musk. From accusations of hosting disinformation to international disputes over platform policies, the company has faced growing scrutiny worldwide.
For now, Brazilian users will need to stay off X, or risk a major fine, while the company and authorities continue to navigate the legal and regulatory challenges.
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