Jury: Meta failed to protect children from sexual predators

A jury in the US state of New Mexico has found that Meta violated the Consumer Protection Act and must pay $375 million.

According to the lawsuit, the company misled the public about the safety of its Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp platforms while failing to adequately protect children from sexual abuse.

The verdict is the first of its kind. Meta is also facing mounting pressure and multiple lawsuits over the impact of social media on the mental health of young people. Attorney General Raúl Torrez described the ruling as historic and said it sent a clear signal to technology companies.

Meta rejects the allegations and plans to appeal. The company says it has introduced extensive measures to protect users.

The case stems from an undercover operation that uncovered predators contacting minors. The next phase of the trial will also address possible changes to how the platforms operate.

(reuters, mja)