Brazilian Telecom Regulator May Sanction Starlink Over Compliance Issues

Brazil's telecommunications regulator Anatel is considering sanctions against Starlink, owned by Elon Musk, for refusing to comply with local norms, including suspending social media platform X. Starlink's operations may face further scrutiny, and compliance with court rulings is essential to reverse any sanctions.

Brazil's telecommunications regulator Anatel is poised to take action against Starlink, the satellite internet provider controlled by Elon Musk, for failing to comply with national regulations. This could include revoking its operational license, according to Anatel commissioner Artur Coimbra, who spoke to Reuters on Monday. The scrutiny comes as part of Anatel's broader inspection of Brazilian telecom operators to ensure the shutdown of the X messaging platform as mandated by a Supreme Court justice.

Previously, a Supreme Court panel upheld the suspension of X in Brazil, affecting over 20 million users, due to its non-compliance with local laws that require a legal representative. Justices indicated the suspension could be lifted if X complies with prior court orders. Brazil represents X's sixth-largest market globally, which makes this legal battle notable.

The ongoing dispute between Justice Alexandre de Moraes and Elon Musk has escalated over the platform's refusal to block accounts spreading misinformation. Musk argues that the measures are an attack on freedom of expression, while Moraes insists on adherence to Brazilian law. As the situation unfolds, compliance with these rulings remains a critical factor for both X and its associated services.

(With inputs from agencies.)