The states accuse Meta of building features that encourage young users to stay online longer while failing to properly protect them. They also allege the company illegally collected and used personal data from children under 13. Meta strongly denies the accusations and says research does not show a clear link between social media use and poor well-being among teenagers.
The amount of money at risk could be enormous. Meta says potential penalties could reach as high as $1.4 trillion, close to the company’s entire market value. Lawyers for the states have suggested a figure closer to $200 billion.
The states are also asking for major changes to Facebook and Instagram. Proposed changes include removing or changing
features such as likes and infinite scrolling, placing time limits on younger users and strengthening restrictions designed to keep children under 13 off the platforms.
Zuckerberg is expected to testify during the six-week federal trial, along with Instagram chief Adam Mosseri. A jury will give an advisory verdict, but U.S. District Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers will ultimately decide whether Meta is liable and what penalties or changes should be imposed.