Meta Platforms faces major US trial over child safety claims

A trial in California has begun, which could impact how Meta Platforms, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, operates. A coalition of U.S. states is suing Meta over allegations that the apps were intentionally designed to addict children and negatively affect their mental health. California's deputy attorney-general, Megan O'Neill, stated during the opening arguments that Meta's business model involves "hooking users, holding them for as long as possible, harvesting their data, and then hiding the truth from the public."

O'Neill emphasized that the trial is not about removing social media or Instagram, but rather about addressing the harm caused to young users. The trial involves claims that Meta intentionally designed Facebook and Instagram to target and exploit young users, leading to issues such as anxiety, depression, and even suicide. The four leading states argue that Meta misled consumers about the safety of its platforms and violated federal law by improperly collecting and using the personal data of children.

Meta co-founder and CEO Mark Zuckerberg and Instagram chief Adam Mosseri are expected to testify. If the judge finds Meta liable, she could impose civil penalties and order changes to the platforms. The trial is expected to last six weeks and is considered a significant legal test of the impact of social media on young users, as it comes amid a global reckoning on the effects of these platforms.