Meta Hit with $375 Million Penalty for Concealing Child Safety Risks
A New Mexico jury ruled Meta breached state law by concealing risks of child sexual exploitation and mental health harms, finding thousands of violations that carry $375 million in penalties. The verdict marks the first jury decision on youth safety issues after a nearly seven-week trial.
1. Jury Verdict
A New Mexico jury concluded that Meta breached the state’s Unfair Practices Act after a trial lasting nearly seven weeks. Jurors found Meta knowingly concealed dangers of child sexual exploitation and mental health harms on its platforms.
2. Penalties and Violations
The jury identified thousands of separate violations, each subject to penalties, culminating in a total civil fine of $375 million. These violations included false or misleading statements and unconscionable trade practices taking advantage of minors’ vulnerabilities.
3. Broader Legal Context
This ruling represents the first jury verdict in lawsuits claiming Meta’s platforms harm youth safety and mental health. Meta faces additional lawsuits nationwide over child safety and addictive design, and it plans to appeal by citing First Amendment and Section 230 protections.