Meta Platforms, the company that owns Facebook and
Instagram, is facing a new legal battle in the United States after several
states filed lawsuits accusing the company of deliberately designing its
platforms to encourage compulsive use among minors.
According to information circulating on social media, four
states—including California—are seeking to impose fines of up to $1.4 billion
(according to the numerical scale used in Spanish). However, this figure has
primarily circulated in viral posts and will need to be confirmed during the
legal proceedings, as it is not part of a court ruling.
The lawsuits allege that Meta's social networks employ
features and algorithms that incentivize prolonged use of the platforms, which,
according to the plaintiffs, has contributed to problems such as anxiety,
depression, body image disorders, and even self-harm among teenagers.
The plaintiff states argue that the company was aware of the
potential negative effects of its products on younger users and yet prioritized
growth in engagement and advertising revenue.
Meta, for its part, has repeatedly rejected these
accusations, asserting that it has implemented parental control tools, usage
limits, privacy settings, and other measures designed to protect children and
adolescents. The company also maintains that children's mental health is a
complex issue involving multiple factors, not solely the use of social media.
The legal proceedings are expected to continue in the coming
months, with both sides presenting evidence, studies, and expert testimony on
the impact of digital platforms on the mental health of young people during the
hearings.