Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, faces a landmark jury trial in Santa Fe, New Mexico, over allegations of knowingly exposing children to harm on its platforms. The state’s attorney general claims Meta prioritized profits over child safety, enabling predators to exploit minors for abuse and trafficking.

State prosecutors will present evidence of how Meta’s decisions contributed to a dangerous online environment for children. Meta has denied the allegations, citing collaborations with parents, experts, and law enforcement. Recent initiatives like Teen Accounts and parental controls are presented as evidence of the company’s commitment to protecting young users.

The trial follows a 2023 investigation revealing Meta’s struggles in preventing child trafficking. This case comes after a lawsuit in Los Angeles accusing major tech companies of harming children’s mental health. Legal experts anticipate the trial to test US protections shielding tech platforms from liability.

The trial, expected to last seven weeks, could set a precedent in holding Big Tech accountable for child safety online. This legal challenge marks a significant step in the ongoing push to ensure the protection of young users on social media platforms.

Read more at Nasdaq: The Battle For Child Safety, Meta Faces Landmark Trial