Meta agrees to child-safety changes on Facebook, Instagram in US states settlement

Meta has reached a proposed settlement with 29 US states, agreeing to implement substantial changes to its Facebook and Instagram platforms aimed at enhancing the protection of children and teenagers. The agreement, filed in the US District Court for the Northern District of California, addresses allegations that the social media giant's practices harmed young users.

Under the terms of the settlement, users under 18 will face a default daily usage limit of two hours, which parents can override. Additionally, Meta will restrict teenage users' access between midnight and 6 am by default, and limit notifications during nighttime hours and school days. California Attorney General Rob Bonta stated that these changes are expected to be implemented within months, significantly reducing the risk of harm from Meta's platforms.

The settlement also mandates that Meta strengthen its age-assurance systems to better identify users under 18 and detect those under 13 who are using its services. An independent auditor will monitor the company's compliance with these new measures. The financial component of the agreement includes guaranteed payments over 10 installments, with potential additional payments contingent on certain conditions being met, totaling up to approximately $16.68 billion over 10 years.

The lawsuit, filed in 2023, accused Meta of designing features that encouraged excessive and compulsive use among minors while failing to disclose the associated risks adequately. It also alleged that Meta illegally collected and used data from children under 13, violating federal and state laws, including the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act. Meta has denied all allegations and liability, stating that the settlement does not constitute an admission of wrongdoing.

This proposed settlement comes after a trial in the case had already begun on August 18 in the US District Court for the Northern District of California, before the parties successfully negotiated the agreement. The changes aim to create a safer online environment for young users by addressing concerns about excessive screen time, data privacy, and platform design.

“

Meta has agreed to make massive transformations that will reduce the risk of harm from its platforms -- and will do it within months.