Meta settles in US states lawsuit on teen user addiction
Meta has agreed to pay what could amount to billions of dollars and to implement platform usage limitations on young users in a lawsuit brought by US states. The challenge revolved around addiction issues and overuse.
Meta has reached a settlement with the states over allegations that its platforms, particularly Facebook and Instagram, harm young users, potentially costing the company up to $16.7 billion. The lawsuit, filed by the states in 2023, alleges that Meta's social media products addict teenagers. To resolve the issue, Meta agreed to implement a 2-hour daily usage limit for teenagers on its platforms.
The settlement, which will benefit 47 states, the District of Columbia, and various territories, requires Meta to make product changes. According to Meta's blog post, the company emphasizes its commitment to providing a safe and productive experience for users, particularly parents and teenagers. Meta also suggested that competitors like TikTok and YouTube should follow suit in implementing teen restrictions.
While Meta's shares experienced a minor decline after the news broke, the settlement's formal approval by a federal judge remains pending. This story is still unfolding and will be updated with further developments.
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