Meta settlement opens new front in global fight over social media harm
The deal brings sweeping changes to Meta's Facebook and Instagram platforms in the United States, including imposing a default two-hour limit on its apps for users under the age of 18.
Meta's $18 billion settlement with US states marks a new chapter in the global battle to safeguard children from the harms of social media. The agreement compels Meta to implement a default two-hour daily usage cap for users under 18 on Facebook and Instagram. Australian officials welcomed the move, while Philippine officials stated Meta had promised to enhance protections in their country as well.
This settlement adds to a worldwide trend of governments seeking to limit children's exposure to addictive social media features. Australia recently banned social media for minors under 16, and the European Commission has called for stricter measures, including disabling autoplay and endless scrolling. Despite the settlement, enforcement of these restrictions has been inconsistent, particularly in Australia where weak age verification systems have allowed many minors to remain on the platforms.
Similar legal actions are being considered in other jurisdictions, including Australia, as families seek answers about their children's exposure to potentially harmful social media features.
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