Meta is gearing up for a crucial trial this week, following two earlier losses on child safety issues. The trial, overseen by U.S. District Judge Yvonne Gonzales Rogers in Oakland, California, involves a lawsuit filed by multiple states accusing Meta of unlawfully collecting data from users under 13 without parental consent. The trial, expected to span six weeks, may see Meta’s top executives, Mark Zuckerberg and Adam Mosseri, take the stand.
The lawsuit, initiated by a coalition of states nearly three years ago, alleges that Meta, which owns Facebook, Messenger, Instagram, and WhatsApp, deliberately obscured the harmful effects of its platforms on young users while profiting from data collection and targeted advertising. The trial’s first phase involves California, Colorado, Kentucky, and New Jersey, with more states potentially following suit depending on the trial’s outcome.
While the states have not disclosed a specific financial claim, Meta anticipates potential damages of up to $1.4 trillion. The company views this figure as excessive and unfeasible, stating that such a penalty could bankrupt the company. However, the final decision on damages rests with the court. In addition to financial compensation, the states are seeking structural changes to Meta’s platforms, such as age restrictions and the removal of features like infinite scroll.
Meta refutes the allegations, emphasizing its efforts to enhance user safety, including the introduction of new features and safety measures on its platforms. Despite facing legal challenges in various jurisdictions, Meta continues to defend its practices and commitment to protecting young users.