Meta hooked children and misled public: prosecutors
In what many experts have called social media's ‘big tobacco moment’, a coalition of States is asking that Meta be penalized by around $200 billion for designing products addictive to children
A U.S. federal court heard evidence on Tuesday (August 18, 2026) that Meta knowingly exploited children by making its Instagram and Facebook platforms addictive, marking a "social media's big tobacco moment." States are seeking penalties of around $200 billion, arguing the social media giant designed its products to target and harm children's mental health.
California prosecutor Megan O'Neill described Meta's business model as one aimed at hooking users, harvesting their data, and concealing the truth from the public. Meta acknowledged some users experienced negative consequences but claimed it attempted to implement protective measures. Former Meta engineering director Arturo Bejar testified that safety was often prioritized after releasing new features.
The trial, expected to last six weeks, could force Meta to make significant changes to its apps, similar to the 1998 tobacco industry settlement.
Written by urgent.news from The Hindu - Sci-Tech's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
Also reported by 1 other outlet
- Meta hooked children and misled public: prosecutors japantimes.co.jp
