Meta has been ordered to pay $942m fine after a US court ruled its platforms exposed children to harmful content and online predators.
Meta Faces Massive Court Blow
Meta has suffered another major legal defeat in the United States. A judge in New Mexico ordered the company to pay $567 million over child safety failures. The new ruling comes after an earlier $375 million penalty. Together, Meta now faces a total bill of $942 million.
Judge Bryan Biedscheid ruled that Meta became a “public nuisance.” He compared the company to a factory that creates pollution. According to him, Meta’s products are adverts and content.
However, the “pollution” is the psychological harm and sexual exploitation of children. Meta has already said it will challenge the decision. The company stated,
“We disagree with the ruling and will appeal.”
Why the Court Ruled Against Meta
The case started in 2023 after New Mexico accused Meta of exposing children to dangerous content. The court found that Meta’s recommendation algorithms pushed young users towards harmful materials and unsafe contacts. As a result, the judge ruled that the damage went beyond the internet. He said the effects also hurt families, schools, hospitals and law enforcement.
Meanwhile, Bruce Daisley, a former Twitter executive, called the fine “a drop in the ocean” for Meta. The comment reflects the company’s huge earnings. Meta recently reported $61 billion in revenue between April and June.
New Rules Meta Must Follow
Besides paying the money, Meta must also make major changes. About $420 million will fund mental health treatment for affected children. Another part will support training for teachers and health workers.
The court also ordered Meta to stop adults from messaging underage users. In addition, users under 18 cannot send or receive nude images. The company must also remove like counts for teenagers. Push notifications will be blocked overnight and during school hours. Young users will also face a monthly limit of 90 hours across Facebook and Instagram.
More Legal Trouble Ahead
Meta’s legal battles are far from over. Another major child privacy trial begins next week in California. Nearly three dozen US states are accusing the company of breaking child privacy laws.
If more courts rule against Meta, the pressure on the social media giant could become even greater
