Trial Begins for Meta Over Allegations of Product Harm to Children

Why it matters locally: While this is a national trial, the outcome could influence regulations and product design for social media platforms used by a significant portion of Utah's under-18 population, potentially leading to changes in how these platforms operate within the state.

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OAKLAND, Calif. — A federal trial has begun involving Meta Platforms, Inc., the company that operates Facebook and Instagram. Four state attorneys general are pursuing the lawsuit, alleging Meta designed its products to create addiction among children. They further claim the company was aware of these potential harms and did not disclose them. Opening arguments occurred in a federal courthouse in Oakland, California. The legal action centers on the impact of Meta's social media platforms on younger users.