Urgent.News

What's breaking now, across thousands of outlets.

Tech

Meta will pay $18 billion for teen safety, asks TikTok and YouTube to follow suit

The settlement also adds mandatory time limits and other default safeguards across Instagram and Facebook.

Meta will pay $18 billion for teen safety, asks TikTok and YouTube to follow suit

Meta has struck a $18 billion settlement with 52 attorneys general over allegations that Facebook and Instagram negatively impact the mental health of teenagers. As part of this agreement, the company has implemented new default safety measures for teens, restricting access to core features like Reels and Stories during certain times.

The bulk of the settlement, approximately $5.3 billion, hinges on similar safeguards being adopted by TikTok and YouTube. Meta's statement disclosed the payout is earmarked for youth online safety initiatives and other state activities, with several teen-safety features set to be included and enabled by default on Facebook and Instagram.

The company has, however, steadfastly maintained that no wrongdoing occurred in this significant legal resolution.

Written by urgent.news from Android Authority's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.

Read the original at androidauthority.com →

More in Tech

MPs seek investigation into Safaricom SIM deactivation and number reassignment

Under the current practice, SIM cards that remain unused for a specified period, ordinarily six months, can be deactivated before the number is eventually assigned to another subscriber.

  • MPs demand investigation into Safaricom SIM deactivation practices.
  • Concerns raised over potential fraud, lost funds, unauthorized access.
  • Committee to assess compliance with consumer protection and data privacy laws.

More from Wednesday 26 August →