Meta Found Liable in Child Exploitation Case
Why this is here: The jury’s decision to award damages highlights a growing legal pressure on Meta and other social media platforms regarding the safety of young users, coinciding with a separate case in Los Angeles examining addictive features.
A New Mexico jury found Meta liable for violating state law in a case alleging it failed to warn users about dangers and protect children from sexual predators. The jury found Meta guilty of engaging in unfair and deceptive practices and awarded damages totaling $375 million.
For years, Meta has faced concerns from parents and advocates regarding risks to children on its platforms. This decision marks the first time the company has been held liable by a jury in a case centered on these issues. Meta plans to appeal the verdict.
New Mexico’s Attorney General, Raúl Torrez, sued Meta in 2023, claiming the company created a “breeding ground” for child predators on Facebook and Instagram. A later phase of the case could compel Meta to modify its platforms and pay additional penalties. The company maintains it is committed to protecting young users online.