Former Meta Employee Testifies in Social Media Addiction Trial

Why it matters locally: While not directly affecting specific South Carolina industries, the testimony in this national trial could influence future federal or state regulations on social media platforms, potentially impacting digital literacy and online safety initiatives within South Carolina schools and communities.

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OAKLAND, Calif. — A former Meta Platforms employee, Arturo Béjar, provided testimony on Monday in an ongoing trial concerning social media addiction. The proceedings against Meta Platforms took place at the Ronald V. Dellums Federal Building & United States Courthouse in Oakland, California. Béjar, an engineer, stated under oath that Meta's company culture emphasized expanding user numbers. He said this prioritization occurred over the implementation of safety measures for children.