Meta reaches $17 billion settlement with states over landmark teen social media addiction claims

The useful part

The settlement resolves a pivotal legal case years in the making that sought to hold the tech giant accountable for the role its platforms played in undermining children's mental health. "For years, Meta intentionally deceived the public about the addictive and harmful design features that have wreaked havoc on youth mental health," the Virginia attorney general, Jay Jones, said. California's attorney general, Rob Bonta, said the money would be paid out over 10 years, with the state getting at least $1.5 billion if the settlement is approved by the court.

How it works

• Meta urges rivals to adopt similar safety measures Meta said in a blog post that it was "building on our longstanding efforts to empower parents and support teens." "Ensuring teens have a safe and...

What to take from it

The effort targeted features designed to hook young people's attention.

Details worth keeping

Meta has agreed to pay $17 billion and add stronger child-safety measures to its Facebook and Instagram platforms to end a landmark trial over teen social media addiction and settle claims filed by 47 states, state attorneys general announced Wednesday. New Jersey expects to receive at least $525 million. Massachusetts said it was in line for at least $366 million.