Economy|TechnologyUS jury orders Meta to pay $375m for endangering childrenThe verdict marks the first time a US state has successfully sued the social media giant over child safety issues.
A jury in the United States has mandated that Meta pay $375 million due to allegations of contributing to children's mental health issues and making them susceptible to sexual exploitation. This decision follows a six-week trial initiated by New Mexico…
A jury in the United States has mandated that Meta pay $375 million due to allegations of contributing to children's mental health issues and making them susceptible to sexual exploitation. This decision follows a six-week trial initiated by New Mexico state authorities accusing the company of inadequate protection of minors.
This verdict represents the first instance of a U.S. state successfully suing Meta over child safety concerns. Meta, the owner of Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp, is currently facing numerous lawsuits regarding the impact of its platforms on young users' mental health.
The jury concurred with state prosecutors who asserted that Meta prioritized profits over safety, violating New Mexico's Unfair Practices Act. Allegations included the dissemination of false or misleading statements and engagement in "unconscionable" trade practices that exploited the vulnerabilities of children.
Evidence presented during the trial included testimonies from 40 witnesses and the review of extensive documentation. Despite the verdict, Meta's spokesperson announced plans to appeal, emphasizing the company's ongoing efforts to maintain safety on its platforms.
This decision follows a six-week trial initiated by New Mexico state authorities accusing the company of inadequate protection of minors.
The legal action was spearheaded by New Mexico Attorney General Raúl Torrez, after an undercover operation revealed that fake accounts received inappropriate material. The operation led to criminal charges against several individuals.
Torrez described the verdict as significant for child safety, stressing that the damages ordered should alert technology executives to the legal accountability of their entities.
A subsequent phase in New Mexico's case against Meta is set for May, where additional penalties and operational changes will be considered. Concurrently, a California jury is deliberating on whether Meta and YouTube are liable for child-related harms, a case that could influence numerous similar lawsuits nationwide.
Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.