Las Vegas Judge Orders Meta to Provide Child Social Media Policies, US

A Las Vegas judge on Wednesday ordered Meta Platforms to provide more information to the state about its policies and procedures regarding minors and their use of social media. District Judge Joanna Kishner oversaw a hearing about the state of Nevada’s complaint against Meta, alleging that the company’s algorithms are aimed at addicting young users. Attorney General Aaron Ford’s lawsuits in January include Meta-owned platforms Facebook, Instagram, and Messenger, along with TikTok and Snapchat. Meta is required to disclose its guidelines for removing minors under 13 from its platforms and details on monitoring minors’ usage since 2017. The case’s pivotal aspect revolves around the court’s jurisdiction over Meta, with the company arguing against the court’s authority due to its national and global presence. The court delayed a ruling on jurisdiction until further information is obtained. Additionally, the state is seeking to restrict Meta from using end-to-end encryption on Messenger for individuals under 18, citing concerns about child safety. Meta’s defense emphasizes that the encryption is a standard feature in many platforms for security and privacy purposes. The hearing earlier in March addressed Messenger’s role as a communication tool for child predators, highlighting conflicting perspectives regarding the encryption’s impact. Meta plans to file motions to dismiss in the other ongoing lawsuits. Discussions have included the possibility of consolidating the cases, coordinating evidence, and potential trials. While judicial processes unfold, uncertainties remain over the next legal steps and trial prospects.