Meta denies allegations that its platforms were deliberately designed to make children and teenagers addicted as a major US court case begins.
WEB DESK: Meta has rejected allegations that Facebook and Instagram were deliberately designed to make children and teenagers addicted, as the company faces a major legal challenge in the United States over the impact of its social media platforms on young users.
The company has denied claims that its products were intentionally developed with features designed to keep children and teenagers engaged for excessive periods.
Meta rejects allegations
The allegations are being examined in a major court case involving US states that have accused Meta of prioritising user engagement and profits over the safety of young people.
Meta has strongly disputed the claims, arguing that the case does not accurately reflect how its platforms are developed or the measures the company has taken to protect younger users.
The company has also challenged the financial demands being made against it.
States accuse Meta of harming young users
The legal action centres on allegations that Meta knowingly designed features that encourage prolonged use of Facebook and Instagram and could negatively affect children and teenagers.
The states have argued that Meta should be held accountable for the alleged consequences of its platform design and should make changes to improve protections for younger users.
The case has become part of a wider legal and political debate in the United States over children’s access to social media and the responsibilities of technology companies.
Growing scrutiny of social media platforms
The legal battle comes amid increasing scrutiny of major social media companies over their impact on young users.
US lawmakers, state authorities and parents’ groups have increasingly called for stronger safeguards, greater transparency and stricter age-related protections across social media platforms.
Meta, meanwhile, maintains that it has introduced measures aimed at improving safety and providing parents with greater control over their children’s online experiences.
The outcome of the case could have wider implications for how social media platforms are designed and regulated, particularly when it comes to children and teenagers.
