Meta must pay 567 millones de dólares in damages and implement strict safety mandates for minors on Facebook and Instagram following a New Mexico state court ruling issued on Thursday. The decision stems from the second phase of a lawsuit finding the technology company liable for creating a public nuisance through the impact of its social media platforms on young users, according to court records and public statements from state officials.
New Mexico Court Orders Meta to Pay 567 millones de dólares and Reform Platforms
The ruling delivered on Thursday requires Meta to overhaul user safety features aimed at minors across its core social networks. According to the court order, the company must establish monthly usage limits for adolescent accounts on Facebook and Instagram, restrict notifications sent to minor users, and apply stringent controls to manage contact between adults and minors. Additional mandates include specific safeguards for artificial intelligence chatbots operating on the platforms and enhanced review protocols for handling reports of child sexual abuse material.
The financial penalty follows an earlier phase of the legal proceedings concluded in March. During that initial stage, a jury ordered Meta to pay 375 millones de dólares in civil penalties after determining the company violated state consumer protection laws by misrepresenting the safety of Facebook and Instagram for children and adolescents.
State Officials Celebrate Ruling While Meta Announces Appeal
New Mexico Attorney General Raúl Torrez praised the outcome, connecting the judgment directly to parental concerns regarding digital safety. According to Torrez, the decision serves as a victory for families seeking a safer online environment for children. Meta rejected the allegations and confirmed plans to challenge the decision in a higher court. A company spokesperson stated in a late Thursday release that Meta remains confident in its safety record for young users and will continue defending itself against claims that misrepresent company practices.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What was the total financial penalty ordered against Meta? The court ordered Meta to pay 567 millones de dólares in damages during the second phase, following a 375 millones de dólares civil penalty awarded in March.
- Which platforms are affected by the safety mandates? The restrictions apply to Facebook and Instagram, both operated by parent company Meta.
- What specific safety changes must Meta make? Meta must implement monthly usage caps for teens, limit minor notifications, restrict adult-to-minor contact, secure AI chatbots, and strengthen reviews of child sexual abuse reports.
- How has Meta responded to the judgment? Meta announced it will appeal the ruling, defending its current safety measures and disputing the allegations made during the trial.