Meta 'hid the truth' over child safety, court hears, as social media trial begins

Live updates

1. 27d ago

   Meta faces 'astronomical' consequences in child safety trial

   Meta is on trial in California over allegations it hooked children on Facebook and Instagram, misled the public about risks, and prioritized profits over safety. The company faces potential 'astronomical' consequences, including a $200 billion claim from states. The trial marks a critical moment in the legal fight over social media addiction and child safety.

   Why it matters

   The trial is a landmark case that could have significant implications for Meta's future and the broader social media industry. It comes amid growing concerns about the impact of social media on children's mental health and well-being. The case is not about damages, but 'restitution and distortion,' according to California AG Bonta.

   What is confirmed

   • Meta faces 'astronomical' consequences as legal fight reaches critical moment in California
   • States seek $200 billion from Meta over child social media addiction claims
   • Meta 'hid the truth' over child safety, court hears, as social media trial begins
   • The trial is about 'restitution and distortion,' not damages, according to California AG Bonta

   Still unconfirmed

   • Meta allegedly designed its platforms to be addictive to children

   What to watch next

   • The outcome of the trial and potential consequences for Meta
   • The impact on the broader social media industry and potential regulatory changes
   • The testimony of key witnesses, including Meta executives and experts
   Sources used for this update (19)

   1. CNBC — Meta faces ‘astronomical’ consequences as legal fight reaches critical moment in California
   2. The New York Times — States Seek $200 Billion From Meta Over Child Social Media Addiction Claims
   3. BBC — Meta 'hid the truth' over child safety, court hears, as social media trial begins
   4. NPR — 'Profits won.' The child safety trial against Meta kicks off in federal court
   5. CNN — Meta is back in the courtroom to face its biggest social media addiction trial yet
   6. PBS — WATCH: Advocates for greater social media protections for kids speak outside Meta trial
   7. Fox Business — States accuse Meta of targeting children for Facebook, Instagram addiction: 'The young ones are the best ones'
   8. qz.com — Meta trial opens over claims it addicted kids to social media
   9. The Guardian — Social media on trial as $200bn case against Facebook and Instagram begins
   10. Los Angeles Times — ‘The young ones are the best ones’: Meta on trial for alleged effort to hook kids
   11. Axios — Meta spars with states in opening arguments of child safety trial
   12. The Hill — States allege Meta hooked kids on social media, misled public on risks in high-profile trial
   confidence 85%