Four U.S. states are taking Meta to trial this week in federal court in Oakland, California, over allegations that the social media giant deliberately designed addictive features contributing to the youth mental health crisis. State attorneys general are seeking theoretical damages of up to $1.4 trillion, a sum equivalent to the company’s entire market capitalization, along with structural changes to how Facebook and Instagram operate. Meta is also accused of routinely collecting data on children under 13 without parental consent, in violation of federal law. The company said it disputes the allegations and that the trial evidence will demonstrate its commitment to supporting young people. Legal experts say a penalty that size would be extremely improbable but that a state victory could nonetheless lead to significant changes in how the platforms are designed.
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