Meta Reaches Settlement Over Social Media Addiction Claims

Meta has settled with state attorneys general over claims that its platforms are designed to be addictive for young users. The agreement requires Meta to modify its apps, including Facebook and Instagram, and pay up to $17 billion to the states over the next decade.

California Attorney General Rob Bonta announced the settlement, emphasizing changes such as default daily time limits for users under 18 and restrictions on notifications during nighttime and school hours. Additional measures include bans on plastic surgery filters and other modifications.

The lawsuit, initially filed by 29 state attorneys general in 2023, now sees Meta reaching a settlement with 47 states, three territories, and the District of Columbia. Approval by a judge is pending.

“Meta has agreed to make massive transformations that will reduce the risk of harm from its platforms,” Bonta stated in a press release.

Separate from this settlement, Meta will pay Texas over $1 billion due to similar allegations, bringing the total payout to over $18 billion.

Accusations against Meta included designing features that encourage excessive use among teens and children. Meta was also accused of misleading the public regarding health risks and collecting data from users younger than 13 without parental consent.

Meta’s chief legal officer, C.J. Mahoney, confirmed the establishment of new rules governing teen use of social media. He urged other companies, like TikTok and YouTube, to implement similar frameworks. Mahoney emphasized the need for an industry-wide solution, as teenagers frequently switch between numerous apps.

In other tech news, Democrats in key races have signed a pledge for stringent AI regulations amid concerns over data centers, with pressure to address AI’s impact on society. Sen. Josh Hawley has initiated an investigation into Flock Safety’s surveillance program, questioning data access.

Bill Gates stated that AI could be a major equalizer or source of injustice, urging leaders to address AI’s potential consequences.

The Department of Justice reported disrupting a Chinese hacking operation targeting U.S. agencies, highlighting the involvement of platforms developed by Nanjing Xinjiuwei Network Technology Co.

Additional tech developments include Google’s AI-responsibility team relocation and Amazon purchasing Nvidia chips for data centers.

Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry dismissed environmental concerns regarding a new SpaceX facility in the state.