Brazilian Press Association Demands Probe into Journalist's Privacy Breach

Brazil's National Newspaper Association (ANJ) has called for an immediate investigation into alleged attempts to breach the privacy of journalist Malu Gaspar, a columnist for the newspaper O Globo. The association expressed indignation over reports that ex-banker Daniel Vorcaro, of Banco Master, and advertiser Thiago Miranda sought to access Gaspar's personal and financial information.

According to messages obtained by the Federal Police, Vorcaro allegedly commissioned Miranda to obtain the journalist's data in an effort to halt her investigations into Banco Master. These communications, extracted from Vorcaro's phone, were reportedly shared by the website Fatos on-line and confirmed by Folha de S.Paulo.

The ANJ strongly condemned these actions, describing them as "mafioso methods" used to intimidate the columnist. The association emphasized that such attempts to stifle free journalistic work are unacceptable. They also called for a thorough investigation into the access of the journalist's personal data, asserting that all citizens, including journalists, should be protected by legal bodies and the General Data Protection Law (LGPD).

Messages exchanged between Vorcaro and Miranda between March and April 2025 reveal discussions about accessing Gaspar's financial transactions and income averages. Despite finding no compromising information, Miranda allegedly stated the need to "find a way to silence this woman." The pair reportedly considered hiring Gaspar with a "million-dollar offer" through IstoÉ magazine or offering her a contract through Grupo Leo Dias, where Miranda previously served as CEO. These proposals, however, did not materialize.

O Globo issued a statement condemning the "devassa" (invasion) ordered by the investigated party into the life of Malu Gaspar, calling it an attempt to silence the press and revealing a modus operandi of a criminal group. Vorcaro, who has been detained since March in connection with Operation Compliance Zero investigating fraud at Master, had hired Miranda to manage his crisis communications. Miranda's agency, Mithi, was reportedly involved in coordinated attacks against the Central Bank and its former director, Renato Gomes, with contracts totaling R$ 8 million, many of which were halted when the Federal Police began investigating the campaign in January.

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visava calar a voz da imprensa e revela um modus operandi do grupo criminoso