Brazil launches investigation on Telegram and Google executives for ‘abusive campaign’

Accused of employing ‘tricks’ and leveraging their market dominance in a campaign against the Fake News Bill, the companies face scrutiny.

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The Supreme Court of Brazil has initiated an investigation into the executives of Telegram and Google after the platforms campaigned against a proposed internet regulation bill. The Lower House Speaker Arthur Lira requested the investigation, accusing the companies of using ‘tricks’ and their hegemonic position in the market in a disinformation campaign.  

The bill would hold internet companies responsible for finding and reporting illegal material and impose fines for failures to do so. The investigation will be conducted by the federal police, who have 60 days to complete it and identify those responsible for the ‘abusive campaign’ against the bill. Google has not commented on the matter, and Telegram has not responded to requests for comment.