Brazil's data protection authority (ANPD) has ordered Discord to suspend its livestreaming feature after a 13-year-old girl was allegedly encouraged to take her own life during a broadcast on the platform. The order was issued on August 12, 2026, following an investigation that began on August 7.
Background of the Case
The ANPD opened its investigation after the death of the teenager, who was reportedly pressured to end her life by other members of a Discord server, a private group within the messaging service. Discord allows users to create and join groups based on interests and communicate through voice or video calls using its 'Go Live' feature.
According to Reuters, the ANPD said it found that Discord lacks real-time access to livestream content, which prevents automated detection of violations. The authority stated that this gap allowed harmful content to go unchecked.
Discord's Response
Discord told the BBC it was 'thoughtfully reviewing' the ANPD's order and is 'committed to user safety.' A spokesperson said, 'Groups or individuals who promote or encourage violence have no place on Discord.' The company added that it 'swiftly investigated and shut down the private, invite-only server involved shortly after its creation and continues to cooperate with law enforcement.'
The spokesperson also noted that evidence suggested the criminal activity 'was coordinated on other platforms before the Discord server was created' and continued 'after the individuals involved were banned from Discord.' Five teenagers have reportedly been arrested in connection with the girl's death.
Compliance and Penalties
Discord has three days to comply with the suspension and can appeal the decision within 10 business days. The platform faces potential fines of up to 50 million reais ($9.67 million) per violation. The suspension will remain in effect until Discord proves it has implemented 'adequate protective measures for minors,' which may include age verification checks.
Context of Platform Regulation in Brazil
This is not the first time Brazil has taken action against a major tech platform. In August 2024, the social media platform X was banned in Brazil after failing to pay fines and meet a deadline set by a Supreme Court judge to name a new legal representative. X was unbanned in October 2024 after complying with court orders, paying fines totaling 28 million reais ($5.1 million), and appointing a local representative.
Discord, which has over 200 million monthly active users and is popular with gamers, can be accessed on desktop and mobile. The company has not indicated whether it will appeal the ANPD's order.
What Comes Next
The ANPD will review Discord's compliance and any proposed measures to protect minors. Discord must either suspend the feature or file an appeal within the specified timeframes. The case highlights ongoing concerns about livestream moderation and the responsibilities of platforms to safeguard young users.