Meta Faces Possible 6% Revenue Fine Over Under-13 User Violations

METAMETA

Meta Platforms was charged under the EU Digital Services Act for insufficient age verification, facing fines up to 6% of global revenue. A two-year inquiry found 10–12% of European children under 13 using Facebook and Instagram, intensifying compliance costs and regulatory risk.

1. EU Charges Under Digital Services Act

The European Commission has filed formal charges against Meta Platforms, alleging inadequate age verification on Facebook and Instagram that allowed 10–12% of European users under 13 to access the services. Under the Digital Services Act, Meta faces fines of up to 6% of its global annual revenue if found in breach after responding to the charges.

2. Compliance Measures and Financial Impact

Meta can submit adjustments or defenses before authorities issue a final ruling, but any fines or stricter age-check requirements could raise compliance costs and weigh on profit margins. Investors are monitoring how the company will revise its platform policies and risk assessment processes to mitigate regulatory headwinds and potential reputational damage.

Sources

FMMFF