US court allows states' youth addiction lawsuit against Meta
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A US federal judge has allowed most claims in a multistate lawsuit accusing Meta Platforms of harming young users through allegedly addictive features on Facebook and Instagram to move forward. In a ruling issued Monday, Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers of the US District Court denied Meta’s bid to dismiss allegations that the company deceived the public, engaged in unfair business practices, and violated the federal Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA). The judge also granted summary judgment to 29 state attorneys general on a key COPPA issue, finding Meta failed to meet notice and parental consent requirements, removing that question from jury consideration.
Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.
Timeline of Events
- 1998 COPPA enacted to regulate children's data
- 2004 Facebook launches as social networking platform
- 2010s Facebook and Instagram expand youth userbase
- Recent years rising concern over youth mental health
- Late 2023 States file youth addiction lawsuit
- Monday Judge denies Meta dismissal request
- Monday Court finds COPPA notice failures
- Next Jury to consider remaining liability claims
Why This Matters to You
If you have kids using Facebook or Instagram, this case matters. It's about whether Meta did enough to protect young users. Check your child's privacy settings today. Make sure they understand the risks.
The Bottom Line
Meta's in hot water for allegedly violating child privacy laws and addictive practices. The court's ruling means a jury will decide if Meta is liable. Worth forwarding if you know parents of young social media users.
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