Messaging platform Discord suspended all real-time video streaming features in Brazil on Monday following a government directive triggered by the death of a 13-year-old girl.
The platform confirmed it is in active discussions with Brazil's National Data Protection Authority, known as the ANPD, to restore video functionality after regulators ordered the suspension last week.
Scope of the streaming ban
The suspension applies to all real-time video communications across all channels and spaces on the platform in South America's largest country. However, Discord remains accessible in Brazil for other functions.
Text and audio communications, including direct messaging, group chats, and servers, continue to operate normally, along with all other features that do not rely on live video or screen sharing.
Discord stated in a note sent to news agency Lusa that it is actively engaged in dialogue with the ANPD to find a solution that will allow live video resources to be restored for Brazilian users. The company reiterated its commitment to working with local authorities to ensure a safer online environment.
Regulatory demands and financial penalties
The regulatory intervention follows an enforcement proceeding launched by the ANPD into minor protection on online platforms. Last week, the authority instructed Discord to halt live broadcasts until the platform demonstrates effective technical, security, and governance measures to protect children and adolescents.
The regulator stated in a public note that the suspension of live streams will remain in effect until Discord proves it has implemented controls adequate to the risks identified for younger users.
If investigations confirm regulatory violations, the ANPD warned it could impose corrective measures and financial sanctions of up to 50 million Brazilian reais, which is approximately 8.44 million euros at current exchange rates.
Police investigation and safety response
The regulatory action was prompted by police investigations into the death of a 13-year-old girl who was allegedly encouraged to perform acts of self-harm and commit suicide during live group streams hosted on the platform.
The case sparked widespread public outrage across Brazil. Two weeks ago, Brazilian First Lady Janja da Silva publicly advocated for blocking Discord entirely within the country and urged the government to take immediate action.
Discord contested the characterisation put forward by the ANPD and emphasized that it does not tolerate groups or individuals that promote or encourage violence.
According to the company, safety teams had previously investigated a private, invite-only server where individuals engaged in criminal activities reportedly encouraged self-harm. Discord noted that the server could not be found through public searches by other users and was permanently removed prior to the teenager's death.
The platform added that it maintains dedicated teams tasked with dismantling harmful groups, removing content that violates its terms of service, and taking enforcement action against malicious actors. Specialized teams also work to identify high-risk threats, locate potential victims, and mitigate dangerous behavior by banning offending accounts and content.
