Elon Musk's satellite-based internet service provider Starlink has announced its decision to comply with a Brazilian Supreme Court justice's order to block the billionaire's social media platform, X. Despite having its assets frozen by Justice Alexandre de Moraes, Starlink stated that it will adhere to the order to block access to X in Brazil. The company emphasized that it continues to pursue legal avenues to address the situation.
Justice de Moraes froze Starlink's accounts as a means to compel the company to cover X's fines, which had exceeded $3 million. Starlink filed an appeal but has refrained from further comments. The justice also ordered the suspension of X for failing to name a local legal representative, a requirement for receiving court notifications and taking necessary actions.
Starlink's compliance with the order comes as a relief to its more than 250,000 customers in Brazil, particularly those in remote areas who rely on the company's high-quality internet service. The company's easy-to-install kits have transformed communication in communities that previously had slow and unstable internet connections.
Starlink's presence in Brazil has also had positive impacts, such as providing telemedicine consults and reliable communication for emergency transport in remote areas. However, improved connectivity has also facilitated illegal activities like gold mining.
Despite Musk's claims of a partnership with the Brazilian government to bring Starlink to schools, no contract had been signed as of March 2023. Starlink holds a 0.5 percent share of the internet market in Brazil since commencing operations in January 2022, trailing behind leading providers.
The clash between de Moraes and Musk highlights the power and influence of tech leaders in today's world. The situation in Brazil underscores the need for accountability and regulations in the tech industry to protect democratic values.
