ANATEL protects your rights: operators are prohibited from disconnecting your residential internet

BridgeJumper · 2026-01-15T20:40:45+00:00

ANATEL bans fixed internet cuts due to data limits, ensuring continuous and unrestricted access. Users should act if they notice slowness by filing complaints. Knowing your rights is crucial for consumer protection.

BridgeJumper

2026-01-15 20:40:45

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If you received a speed reduction notice or a possible fixed internet cutoff after consuming a lot of data, don’t worry. The regulatory agency has established a rule that prevents broadband providers from disconnecting your service due to data caps. This protection is essential to ensure continuous access to work, education, and information.

How consumer protection works for home internet

Although many contracts still mention data limits, this restriction is suspended indefinitely. ANATEL explicitly prohibits operators from reducing speeds or disconnecting users when they reach the contracted usage limit. In practice, you have unrestricted browsing, video assistance, and downloads.

The difference compared to mobile internet is fundamental. While cell plans allow legal cuts after data cap is reached, residential broadband functions as an essential continuous service. Therefore, receiving SMS notifications about 80% or 100% usage is normal on your mobile, but should not happen at your home.

If you notice slowness: know your rights

When your speed drops significantly and you suspect intentional reduction, the first step is to contact the provider. If they confirm that they limited the signal due to “exceeding” the data cap, it constitutes a violation of regulatory standards.

In this situation, file a formal complaint:

ANATEL Portal or Consumidor.gov
Keep all service protocols
Document the speed reduction with screenshots or tests

Guarantees the law offers to users

Unlimited access without cuts due to data volume
Speed maintained as contracted (minimum 80% of the average)
Discounts on the bill in case of service interruption
Legal impossibility of reduction due to “excessive consumption”

Fixed broadband versus mobile internet: understand the differences

Aspect	Fixed Internet	Mobile Internet
Cut due to Data Cap	Prohibited (ANATEL Protection)	Allowed by regulation
Speed Reduction	Forbidden after data is consumed	Authorized after the package ends
Type of Use	Heavy traffic (streaming, heavy downloads)	Moderate consumption, social networks
Nature of Service	Essential continuous	Complementary with restrictions

Can this protection change?

Debates about ending unlimited internet resurface periodically, but defense agencies like IDEC continue fighting to maintain these guarantees. To follow important resolutions and updates about your digital rights, consult the Brazil Internet Steering Committee (CGI.br).

The precautionary measure by ANATEL remains in effect, ensuring that your provider cannot cut or limit your fixed internet while the service is active. Knowing these rights is essential to protect yourself and demand compliance with regulations.

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