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X Changes Traffic Routing Amid Brazilian Ban

Bloomberg Technology

In a surprising turn, X (formerly Twitter) has altered its traffic routing in Brazil, by using IP addresses that overlap with those of various popular websites, including government ones. This change, which X describes as a temporary service restoration to Brazilian users, poses a major challenge for regulators trying to clamp down on the platform. Brazilian Supreme Court judge Alexandre de Moraes, who has been engaged in a prolonged conflict with X owner Elon Musk, is leading efforts to eliminate harmful content online. This tension has led to significant fines for multiple companies regarding content moderation, marking a shift toward stricter regulatory measures. Brazilian users were startled to find access to X briefly restored, leading to speculation about a potential lifting of the ban. However, this temporary access might not last long, as the platform is expected to become inaccessible again soon, igniting debates within Brazilian media and among the public about free speech and Internet governance.

Highlights

• X altered its traffic routing to share IPs with popular sites in Brazil.
• The change complicates regulation enforcement by creating shared access.
• Brazil's Supreme Court, led by Judge de Moraes, is pushing for content moderation.
• Users in Brazil reacted with shock to the temporary restoration of access.
• Elon Musk calls himself a free speech absolutist amidst the conflict.
• Speculation arose about whether the ban on X had been lifted.
• The Brazilian government's efforts to regulate the platform have intensified.
• Fines have been imposed on multiple companies for content moderation.
• The recent events highlight a clash between free speech and regulation.
• Local press discussions reflect mixed feelings about the temporary access.