DIGITAL ECA (LAW 15.211/2015): ONLINE GROOMING IN BRAZIL AND ITS RELATIONSHIP TO THE TRAFFICKING OF CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS

Abstract

This study addresses the trafficking of children and adolescents in Brazil for the purpose of sexual exploitation, facilitated by online grooming. This raises the following problem: how up-to-date is Brazilian legislation in combating the trafficking of children and adolescents for sexual exploitation when facilitated by exposure and the "adultification" of children on social media? Thus, the primary objective is to describe the phenomenon of child and adolescent trafficking in the digital age and to analyze the adequacy of Brazilian legislation regarding this issue. Specific objectives include: understanding the phenomenon of child and adolescent trafficking; describing the *modus operandi* of the crime in the digital environment—specifically how it is initiated, fueled, or influenced by social media; identifying the main platforms and tools used for grooming and exploitation; and analyzing current Brazilian legislation relevant to the topic, with a focus on the new Law 15.211/2025 (popularly known as the "Digital ECA" or "Felca Law") and how it aims to prevent new forms of online child exploitation. The research methodology will be qualitative and exploratory, utilizing bibliographic and documentary research; the expected outcome is to determine the legislative response to this crime as it has evolved into the virtual realm. The study is justified primarily because this involves a current and growing criminal practice—manifesting in new forms and targeting innocent, vulnerable victims—making it essential to research and compile relevant legislation, as well as to analyze its application and the innovations introduced by Law 15.211/2025, in light of the rise of this type of crime.