Meta to pay $18 billion and make sweeping app changes to settle social media harms lawsuit
Meta agreed to implement new safety measures, including a default two-hour daily limit for using Facebook and Instagram, for users under the age of 18
Meta has agreed to pay $18 billion and introduce significant changes to its apps in order to settle a lawsuit alleging the company's products harm children. The settlement comes after a lawsuit filed in 2021 by attorneys general from 29 states, with more states joining later. Meta denies all wrongdoing.
As part of the settlement, Meta will implement new safety measures including a default two-hour daily limit on Facebook and Instagram for users under 18, prompts after every 15 minutes of use, and nighttime restrictions on app usage. Apps will also be limited by default for minors between midnight and 6 A.M., and push notifications will be disabled during school hours. Meta will also age verify users more effectively and change its apps to hide likes by default.
The company must also install stronger safeguards to prevent cyberbullying and block harmful content. Compliance will be monitored by an independent auditor and the states. An additional $5.3 billion will be paid out if YouTube and TikTok agree to similar measures.
Meta's goal is to set an industry standard for teen safety, but the company acknowledges teens often use multiple apps. Some studies suggest social media has addictive effects, but others find benefits when used in moderation. The settlement follows a previous case where a Los Angeles jury found Meta and Google acted negligently in not warning users about potential risks.
Written by urgent.news from Scientific American's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
