This Tuesday (17), the Federal Police launched Operation Digital Guardian in 17 units of the Federation with the aim of combating cybercrimes related to the sexual abuse of children and adolescents. In total, 35 search and seizure warrants were executed across the country to identify and hold criminals responsible who operate mainly on the internet, storing, sharing, producing or selling child and adolescent sexual abuse material. So far, one person has been arrested in the act.
The operation is part of the Federal Police’s permanent effort to combat this type of crime, considered one of the most serious violations of the dignity of children and adolescents. The outbreak occurs on the same day that Law No. 15,211/2025, known as ECA Digital, comes into force, the first Brazilian law to propose rules and punishments applicable to digital platforms, and which establishes new mechanisms to protect children and adolescents in the virtual environment.
Among the measures provided for in the legislation is the creation of the National Center for the Protection of Children and Adolescents, a structure that will be implemented within the scope of the Federal Police to receive communications from internet providers about content that violates the sexual dignity of children and adolescents. Although the term “pornography” still appears in the Child and Adolescent Statute, the international community preferably adopts the expressions ‘sexual abuse of children and adolescents’ or ‘sexual violence against children and adolescents’, as they more accurately reflect the seriousness of these crimes.
The Federal Police reinforces the importance of prevention and advises parents and guardians to monitor the use of the internet by children and adolescents, as a way of reducing risks and protecting possible victims. Open dialogue about security in the digital environment and guidance for children and adolescents to report suspicious situations are also important protection measures.
