What is ECA Digital and how does it protect children online?

ECA Digital is Brazil's Digital Statute for Children and Adolescents, established by Law No. 15,211/2025. It addresses protection in digital products and services aimed at, or likely to be accessed by, children and teenagers. It is not limited to public social networks. (Planalto)

When did it take effect and what regulations apply? ANPD states that it took effect on March 17, 2026. The Decree No. 12,880 of March 18, 2026regulates the law and establishes the national policy for protecting rights in digital environments. This explanation was checked September 20, 2026; consult official channels for subsequent acts and sector-specific guidance. (ANPD) (Planalto)

How does ECA Digital protect children online? The law addresses privacy, risk prevention, age-appropriate access, parental supervision, and protection from harmful contacts and content. It assigns obligations to providers while recognizing parents' and guardians' active care. Safety requires concrete service measures, not simply a notice asking parents to supervise. (Planalto)

ECA Digital and apps: what changes? Scope considers function and the likelihood of use by minors. Calling an app “family-oriented,” “private,” or “for responsible adults” does not automatically exempt it. Providers must assess the obligations applicable to how it works. Regulations detail measures and responsibilities, including data protection and age-related mechanisms. (Planalto)

When choosing a service, look for explanations about its audience, permissions, controls, reporting, and deletion. If a protection claim lacks understandable information about how it works, ask for clarification before subscribing.

Is the law an app certification? No. Explaining legislation on a page does not certify a product's compliance. A published privacy policy is not proof that all required controls have been implemented. What documents describe must match the actual service.

Where can you check changes and seek guidance? Consult the consolidated law on Planalto, the decree, and ANPD's ECA Digital page. The agency publishes guidance, regulatory initiatives, and request channels. A timetable or consultation proposal should not be confused with a final rule already in force. (ANPD)

Alkateia offers family communication with invitations and approval, without public people search. These features explain its purpose but do not constitute legal certification. Also read about parental supervision and minimum ages for social media.