Meta Faces Landmark Trial Over Child Safety and Addictive Design Concerns

A major legal battle against Meta Platforms, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, could lead to sweeping changes in how its platforms operate. The case, currently underway in the U.S. state of New Mexico, centers on allegations that the company failed to ensure child safety and intentionally designed addictive features.

The lawsuit was filed by the New Mexico Attorney General’s office, which accuses Meta of structuring its platforms in ways that keep teenagers engaged for prolonged periods while failing to adequately protect them from risks, including sexual exploitation.

The court is now examining whether Meta’s practices constitute a “public nuisance.” If proven, the ruling could force the company to implement major reforms, including changes to its algorithms, mandatory age verification systems, and the removal of addictive design features.

In an earlier phase of the case, a jury found that Meta had violated consumer protection laws, resulting in a fine of $375 million. In the current phase, state authorities are seeking up to $3.7 billion in damages, which could be used to fund long-term mental health programs.

Meta has rejected the allegations, calling them exaggerated. The company argues that there is no conclusive scientific evidence directly linking social media use to mental health harm.

It also warned that many of the proposed changes may be technically unfeasible and could force the company to suspend services in the affected region if imposed.

Similar lawsuits have been filed against Meta by more than 40 U.S. states and over 1,300 schools, making this case a potentially landmark moment for the future of social media regulation and digital safety for young users worldwide.