Four states seek record damages from Meta over allegations its platforms harm teen mental health and violate privacy laws.
Meta could owe up to $1.4 trillion in penalties if four states succeed in lawsuits alleging the company fueled a teen mental health crisis. The proposed sum, nearly matching Meta’s market valuation, stems from claims the company misled users about platform safety on Facebook and Instagram.
The lawsuits, led by California, Colorado, Kentucky, and New Jersey, accuse Meta of violating consumer protection laws. An additional 29 states are pursuing federal claims over alleged violations of the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act, including unauthorized data collection from minors.
Meta has dismissed the $1.4 trillion figure as “outlandish” and denied wrongdoing. The trial is scheduled to begin in August.