Elon Musk’s X blocked again in Brazil after ‘temporary’ comeback, SC judge threatens massive fine

US billionaire Elon Musk’s social media platform X was once again blocked in Brazil on Thursday (Sep 19), within 24 hours of its temporary come-back. The app became available to some users in the South American country on Wednesday following an update to its communications network.

However, Brazilian Supreme Court was quick to intervene, saying the company had "unlawfully, persistently and intentionally" disregarded judicial rulings and would face a daily fine exceeding $900,000 for non-compliance.

Earlier, X itself acknowledged that its service was "inadvertent and temporary."

The Brazilian Association of Internet and Telecommunications Providers (Abrint) said the app went offline again “just before 4pm local time.”

Judge Alexandre de Moraes, the high-profile judge who has been involved in a prolonged dispute with Elon Musk, on Thursday called X "recalcitrant", while instructing the state telecommunications agency to immediately take measures to block access to the app again.

Feud between X andMoraes

X, owned byMusk, last month claimed its representative in Brazilwas threatened by the Supreme Court judge with legal action if it did not comply with legal orders to take down some content.

"Moraes has chosen to threaten our staff in Brazil rather than respect the law or due process," X's Global Government Affairs account posted.

"As a result, to protect the safety of our staff, we have made the decision to close our operation in Brazil, effective immediately," the statement added.

Earlier this year,Moraes ordered X to take down accounts accused of posting fake news and spreading hatredduring the regime of formerPresident Jair Bolsonaro.

Musk called the order "unconstitutional,"and moved to unblock the previously-banned accounts. Following this,Moraes ordered an inquiry into the Americanbillionaire.

(With inputs from agencies)