Brazil: Bill amending Law for protection of children and adolescents in digital environments by setting minimum age of 16 for access to open-access social networks was introduced to Chamber of Deputies

On 5 February 2026, the Bill amending the Law for the protection of children and adolescents in digital environments on setting a minimum age of 16 for access to open-access social networks was introduced to the Chamber of Deputies. The proposal would prohibit providers of open-access social networks from allowing the creation or maintenance of accounts operated by children and adolescents under 16 years of age. Open-access social networks are defined as internet applications that permit connection and interaction between users without a prior relationship, including through profile discovery mechanisms or automated content recommendation systems. The Bill would require the immediate prohibition of new underage accounts upon entry into force and mandate the identification, suspension or deletion of existing accounts within 6 months. For other digital services, including messaging platforms, the proposal would require that accounts of children and adolescents up to 16 years of age be linked to a legal guardian.