X to End Operations in Brazil

Social media giant X will end operations in Brazil, although its service will remain available to users in the country.

The decision comes in response to actions by Brazil’s Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes. Earlier this year, Moraes ordered X to block certain accounts, as he investigates so-called digital militias accused of spreading fake news and hate messages during the government of former President Jair Bolsonaro.

X owner Elon Musk was named in the criminal inquiry into individuals who allegedly spread false information about Brazil’s election and justice system. In a post on Aug. 17, Musk said there was no other option but to shut down X’s Brazilian office, rather than give in to de Moraes’ orders.