Dozens of US states announced the federal lawsuit in which the claims were made.
Allegations are made that the firm concealed the “substantial dangers” of its platforms while using addictive features to “ensnare” people.
“Disappointed” was how Meta put it.
According to the lawsuit, Meta engaged in “deceptive” behavior, violating consumer protection regulations.
Additionally, it claimed that the business disregarded its responsibilities under the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act by gathering data on children younger than thirteen.
One of the 33 attorneys general who signed the lawsuit was New York Attorney General Letitia James. “Social media companies, including Meta, have contributed to a national youth mental health crisis and they must be held accountable,” James stated.
Nine more states filed complaints based on identical allegations.
According to a Meta representative, the firm has “already introduced over 30 tools to support teens and their families” and shares the attorneys general’s goal to “providing teens with safe, positive experiences online”.
“We’re disappointed that instead of working productively with companies across the industry to create clear, age-appropriate standards for the many apps teens use, the attorneys general have chosen this path,” a spokeswoman said.
Due to the negative effects on mental health, families, youth, and school districts have already brought hundreds of lawsuits against Meta and other social media firms in the US.
