US states call for big changes to Instagram and Facebook as Meta child privacy trial begins

Following the recent trial beginning, US states are demanding significant modifications to Instagram and Facebook due to child privacy concerns and a series of losses in court battles. These states, including California and New York, have sued Meta for upwards of $1 trillion, alleging violations of federal and state privacy laws related to children.

The lawsuit demands changes to the platforms such as eliminating "like" counts, infinite scroll, image filters, autoplay of video content, and disappearing posts like Instagram Stories. Attorney General Russell Coleman of Kentucky emphasized that Meta concealed knowledge of the harm its products cause young people for profit. The states also want Meta to implement parental verification for teenage users and remove features that keep them engaged on the platform.

Meta has denied these allegations and maintains its commitment to young users. However, if the states prevail, the company may need to make significant changes to its platforms, potentially altering the user experience for millions.