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NewsKPBS Public MediaAugust 18, 2026San Diego

Four states sue Meta in federal court over child safety allegations

Opening arguments have begun in a federal trial where four states allege that Meta knowingly designed Facebook and Instagram to be addictive for children and misled the public about these risks. The trial centers on claims that the company prioritized profits over the safety of its younger users.

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Why It Matters

This trial could establish legal precedents regarding the liability of social media companies for the design features of their platforms and their impact on child mental health.

Key Facts

  • Opening arguments are currently underway in federal court.
  • Four states are participating as plaintiffs in the lawsuit against Meta.
  • The lawsuit alleges Meta knew its products could be addictive to children.
  • The lawsuit alleges Meta lied to the public regarding the dangers of its platforms for children.
  • The core allegation is that Meta prioritized profits over child safety.

Who's Mentioned

organizationMeta“Defendant in the lawsuit; owner of Facebook and Instagram.”otherFacebook“Social media platform owned by Meta.”otherInstagram“Social media platform owned by Meta.”