Janice R. Andrews
Brazilian authorities have launched a significant legal battle against Meta, TikTok, and Kwai, seeking damages exceeding $500 million for alleged inadequate protection of young users. Led by the Collective Defense Institute, the lawsuit contends these platforms inadequately warn about social media addiction’s effects on youth mental health and fail to properly protect minors’ data.
The legal action calls for explicit warning labels about potential risks and demands improved data protection protocols for users under 18. The platforms must also reconfigure their algorithms to better protect younger users. According to plaintiff attorney Lillian Salgado, algorithmic modifications are crucial for creating a safer digital environment, similar to standards in other developed nations.
This lawsuit joins a growing trend of legal challenges against these platforms. Previously, New Mexico targeted Meta over child safety concerns on Facebook and Instagram. Internal documents revealed Meta’s apparent reluctance to address algorithm issues despite evidence of widespread harassment affecting young users. TikTok also faces legal action from multiple U.S. state attorneys general over youth safety claims.
Meta has begun implementing protective measures, including supervised “teen accounts” on Instagram for users under 16. While these features await implementation in Brazil, Meta emphasized its decade-long commitment to youth safety, citing the development of numerous protective tools and resources.
The legal action aligns with Brazil’s broader efforts to regulate social media platforms, including a recent $4.9 million fine against X (formerly Twitter) for inadequate content moderation during elections. These actions demonstrate Brazil’s increasing focus on holding social media companies accountable for user protection, particularly regarding young users.
