Meta Hit with $375 Million Penalty in New Mexico Child Safety Case
A New Mexico jury has found Meta liable for endangering minors and failing to adequately protect them from harm on its platforms, including Facebook and Instagram. The company has been ordered to pay $375 million in damages, a decision Meta plans to appeal.
Background of the Lawsuit
New Mexico Attorney General Raúl Torrez filed the lawsuit in December 2023, alleging that Meta prioritized engagement and profit over the safety of young users, potentially facilitating the sexual exploitation of children on its platforms . The case centered on claims that Meta violated state consumer protection laws and misled residents about the safety of its apps.
Key Findings and Jury Deliberations
After a six-week trial, the jury determined that Meta willfully violated New Mexico’s unfair practices act. Jurors reached a verdict on March 24, 2026, after less than a day of deliberations . The $375 million penalty represents the maximum allowed under the state’s law, calculated at $5,000 per violation .
Evidence Presented at Trial
During the trial, evidence included a recording of Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg’s deposition, where he downplayed the significance of internal research regarding the impact of Meta’s platforms on users . The state’s attorney, Linda Singer, argued that Meta knowingly encouraged overconsumption of its platforms by minors, despite understanding the potential harm . Internal documents revealed warnings from employees and child safety experts about risks on the platforms, which were allegedly ignored by Meta executives .
Meta’s Response and Planned Appeal
A Meta spokesperson stated the company respectfully disagrees with the verdict and intends to appeal . The spokesperson emphasized Meta’s commitment to user safety and acknowledged the challenges of identifying and removing harmful content.
Further Legal Proceedings
The case will proceed to a second phase, where a judge will determine whether Meta created a public nuisance and should fund programs to address the alleged harm. The state is also seeking changes to Meta’s apps and operations, including age verification, predator removal, and protection of minors from encrypted communications .
Related Legal Challenges
This case is part of a broader wave of legal pressure on Meta and other social media platforms regarding the safety of young users. A separate trial in Los Angeles is currently underway, accusing Meta and YouTube of intentionally creating addictive features that harmed a young woman’s mental health . Numerous other lawsuits from individuals, school districts, and state attorneys general are also pending.
Financial Implications for Meta
Meta warned investors in its 2026 annual report that the increasing number of lawsuits related to “social media addiction” could significantly impact its financial results .
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