A judge in New Mexico has ordered Meta to pay $567 million based on claims that the social media giant created public inconvenience and harmed children. This was reported by Euronews.
"We disagree with the decision and will appeal," Meta stated in a release, adding that they are "working diligently to ensure people's safety and have been transparent about the challenges of identifying and removing bad actors and harmful content."
During closing arguments, prosecutor Linda Singer noted that Meta's algorithms actively directed adults to content posted by teenage users, while Meta concealed internal conclusions regarding risks to youth.
The majority of the compensation, amounting to $420 million, will be directed to programs to assist affected youth. The remaining funds will be used, among other things, for training teachers and healthcare workers in combating the harmful effects of social media on teenagers.
Previously, in March, the company was ordered to pay $375 million to New Mexico as compensation when it was found guilty of putting children at risk by making them vulnerable to predators on its platforms, among other harms.
