Starlink Refuses to Block X in Brazil, Defying Court Order

In a move that has intensified tensions with Brazilian authorities, Starlink, the satellite internet service owned by Elon Musk, has refused to comply with a court order to block access to X, the social network also controlled by Musk, the New York Times reports. 

The decision was made in the midst of ongoing disagreements between Musk and the Brazilian government, and it was informed to Anatel, the telecom agency in Brazil, on Sunday.

Musk has been defying Brazilian court orders to suspend specific X accounts for weeks. This has resulted in growing fines and the termination of X employees in Brazil, as if to keep the courts from holding them responsible. When Brazil’s Supreme Court imposed a nationwide ban on X, the dispute intensified. In response, Musk urged users to use privacy software to get around the ban despite the threat of substantial fines. 

Starlink’s refusal to block X has prompted Anatel to consider revoking the company’s license to operate in Brazil. But given Starlink’s distinct satellite-based infrastructure, it might be challenging for regulators to enforce such a ban. Anatel could potentially seize Starlink’s equipment at its 23 ground stations in Brazil if the company continues to operate without a license. 

Serving 250,000 customers in Brazil, Starlink filed a petition with the Supreme Court to have its assets unblocked, but the request was quickly turned down. The business has stated that, despite being prohibited from conducting business, it will continue to offer its Brazilian clients free internet access.

The conflict stems from Justice Alexandre de Moraes, who has been spearheading a movement in Brazil to suppress hate speech and misinformation on the internet. Musk is enraged by his orders, which frequently target conservative figures, accusing the judge of censorship.

As of Sunday, X has been blocked across Brazil, except for those using Starlink.