Brazil: Federal Police opened investigation into orchestrated social media campaign over allegations of institutional defamation

On 28 January 2026, the Federal Police opened an investigation concerning social media activity related to the Central Bank of Brazil following the liquidation of Banco Master. The investigation was authorised by the Supreme Federal Court after reports emerged that digital influencers may have been offered financial incentives to publish content critical of the Central Bank. According to the authorities, the inquiry aims to assess whether the activities involved coordination or remuneration intended to influence public opinion and whether such conduct may fall within the scope of offences against public institutions. The investigation follows a preliminary report submitted by the Federal Police and reviewed by the judiciary and is connected to ongoing proceedings involving Banco Master concerning suspected financial irregularities related to a blocked acquisition, with reported losses estimated at between BRL 2.4 billion and BRL 4.0 billion. The Federal Police indicated that testimonies are being collected from relevant individuals, including persons associated with the bank’s ownership structure and influencers who have publicly referred to the reported contacts.