Meta Hooked Children, Misled Public

A US federal court heard arguments on Tuesday charging social media giant Meta with deliberately designing Instagram and Facebook to addict and exploit young users.

A coalition of 29 states seeks up to $200 billion in penalties, comparing Meta’s business practices to landmark public health cases against big tobacco companies.

During opening statements, California prosecutor Megan O’Neill accused Meta of intentionally designing features to hook children, harvest their data, and conceal product risks from parents.

Meta Faces Major Child Safety Trial in California

Former Meta engineering director Arturo Bejar testified that early company operations prioritised rapid growth over safety and security.

Meanwhile, Meta defence lawyer Paul Schmidt argued that the company actively developed safety tools to assist users facing negative experiences.

Prosecutors say that Meta hooked children and misled the public (News Central TV) — Prosecutors say that Meta hooked children and misled the public. Credit: Reuters

The lawsuit alleges Meta violated federal law by collecting data from children under 13 without consent, deceiving the public about platform safety, and deploying addictive features.

Outside the courtroom, activist groups and parents rallied to demand platform reform and financial accountability. Executives Mark Zuckerberg and Adam Mosseri are expected to testify during the six-week federal trial.

Author

Abisoye Adeyiga

Abisoye Adedoyin Adeyiga holds a PhD in Languages and Media Studies and a Master’s in Education (English Language). Trained in digital marketing and investigative journalism, she is passionate about new media’s transformative power. She enjoys reading, traveling, and meaningful conversations.