A US court has fined Meta $375 million after finding the company knowingly harmed children's mental health and hid information about child sexual exploitation. Jurors called Meta's practices 'unconscionable' and cited thousands of violations of New Mexico's Unfair Practices Act.
Meta's spokesperson said the company disagrees with the verdict and will appeal, stating it works to keep users safe. The fine does not require immediate changes to Meta's practices, as a second trial phase will determine if the platforms are a public nuisance.
The case was brought by New Mexico's Attorney General, who uncovered evidence that Meta platforms were used for child pornography and sex trafficking. Internal reports and testimony from executives, engineers, and experts were examined during the trial.
More than 40 states have filed lawsuits against Meta, alleging it designs social media features to be addictive and harmful to children.