The legal action centered on claims that Meta knowingly harvested data from minors without parental consent, a direct violation of the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act. While the massive payout avoids a protracted jury trial, the company maintains no admission of liability regarding the accusations of predatory design practices.
In section Startups & Technology
Meta Agrees to $18 Billion Settlement Over Youth Safety Claims
Twenty-nine U.S. states have reached an $18 billion settlement with Meta to resolve allegations that the company intentionally designed Instagram and Facebook to addict children. The agreement marks a significant conclusion to litigation accusing the social media giant of ignoring mental health risks and violating federal data privacy laws.
Meta is now positioning the settlement as a template for digital safety, urging competitors like YouTube and TikTok to adopt similar parental controls. The company stated that the partnership with state attorneys general establishes a new industry standard, emphasizing that creating a secure experience for younger users remains a corporate priority.
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