Brazil's National Data Protection Authority (ANPD) has begun monitoring 18 high-traffic adult websites for compliance with the country's Digital Statute for Children and Adolescents (Digital ECA), which requires age verification of users located in Brazil. The initial monitoring phase aims to verify whether site operators are adopting measures to restrict access by children and adolescents, as well as collect information and data to support decision-making by the ANPD.
The 18 websites being monitored represent approximately 98% of web traffic for adult content in Brazil, according to a statement released by the ANPD. The list includes tube sites, creator platforms, a cam site, and two escort sites. Earlier this month, the ANPD launched a complaints page where citizens can report possible violations of the Digital ECA.
Background and Context
The Digital ECA was signed into law on September 17, 2025, by Brazil's president, and will take effect on March 17, 2026. The law applies to any digital product or service "aimed at" or "likely to be accessed" by children or adolescents in Brazil, regardless of the provider's location. This includes social networks, messaging apps, video-sharing platforms, games, app stores, streaming services, and adult content websites.
The Digital ECA introduces some of the world's strictest rules for age assurance, parental supervision, and youth-oriented monetization. It requires companies to provide "effective and reliable" age-verification mechanisms to ensure age-appropriate experiences. Platforms can no longer rely on self-declaration to restrict access to adult or otherwise unsuitable content.
Why it Matters to the Industry
The Digital ECA's age verification requirements are significant for the adult industry, as they will require platforms to implement robust and auditable methods to distinguish adults from minors. This may involve collecting identity data or biometric scans, which raises concerns about user privacy and security.
According to a recent article by TechRadar, VPN demand has skyrocketed in Brazil since the mandatory age verification law took effect on March 17. Proton VPN reported a 250% increase in sign-ups from the country overnight between Monday and Tuesday. The company's General Manager, David Peterson, stated that these "surges often reflect adult users turning to VPNs due to growing concerns about their privacy and online security."
What Comes Next
The ANPD has announced that more direct inspection and enforcement actions will commence in January 2027, assuming the agency adheres to its previously announced enforcement timeline. The Digital ECA also establishes penalties for non-compliance, including fines up to R$50 million per violation.
Key Facts
- The ANPD is monitoring 18 high-traffic adult websites for compliance with the Digital ECA.
- The list of monitored websites represents approximately 98% of web traffic for adult content in Brazil.
- The Digital ECA requires companies to provide "effective and reliable" age-verification mechanisms.
- Platforms can no longer rely on self-declaration to restrict access to adult or otherwise unsuitable content.
- The Digital ECA will take effect on March 17, 2026.
- The law applies to any digital product or service "aimed at" or "likely to be accessed" by children or adolescents in Brazil.
