'Can't live without it': alarm at Musk's Starlink dominance in Brazil's Amazon

Elon Musk's Starlink satellite internet service has rapidly expanded in Brazil, particularly in the Amazon region, where it has become essential for various users, including illegal miners and isolated Indigenous communities. Starlink claims over 250,000 clients in Brazil, with nearly 70,000 in the Amazon alone. The service has been instrumental in providing connectivity in remote areas, but its proliferation has raised concerns among Brazilian authorities regarding its use by criminal networks and the potential for foreign influence over sensitive regional data. Critics argue that Musk's dominance in the satellite internet market poses risks to Brazil's national security, as the company may have access to critical information about the Amazon's resources. Additionally, Musk's erratic behavior and refusal to comply with Brazilian court orders have heightened fears about the implications of relying on a single vendor for essential communications infrastructure. Experts suggest that Brazil should seek alternative providers to mitigate these risks, especially as competition in the satellite internet market is expected to grow.

- Starlink has over 250,000 clients in Brazil, with significant growth in the Amazon region.

- The service is used by both isolated communities and illegal mining operations.

- Concerns exist about national security and foreign influence due to Musk's control over the service.

- Critics urge Brazil to diversify its satellite internet providers to reduce dependency on Starlink.

- Musk's behavior and refusal to comply with local regulations raise alarms about reliance on a single vendor.