SANTA FE, N.M.-- A trial focused on the dangers of child sexual exploitation on social media and whether Meta misrepresented the safety of its platforms is set to start in New Mexico with opening statements Monday.New Mexico Attorney General Raúl Torrez sued Meta in 2023.His team built the case by posing as kids through social media accounts, then documenting the arrival of sexual solicitations as well as the response by Meta, the owner of Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp.Prosecutors say they’ll provide evidence and testimony that Meta’s algorithms and account features enticed and addicted young people to social media, while also creating a “breeding ground” for predators who target children for sexual exploitation.
Prosecutors allege Meta failed to disclose what it knew about those harmful effects, in violation of state consumer protection laws.Meta also is accused of creating a public nuisance.“Meta knowingly exposes children to the twin dangers of sexual exploitation and mental health harm,” the lawsuit states.“Meta’s motive for doing so is profit.”Popular ReadsTrump says he didn't see full racist video, says he won't apologizeFeb 6, 10:09 PMStepbrother arrested, charged after teen girl's death on Carnival Cruise: StepfatherFeb 6, 7:01 PM'Bring her home': Savannah Guthrie addresses her mother missing in possible abductionFeb 2, 10:51 PMPersonal opinions of Zuckerberg and evolving attitudes toward social media loomed over jury selection from a pool of more than 200 residents of Santa Fe County, including several educators, young adults who grew up with social media and others who never signed up.“Quite frankly, he's the tech bro making money off of all of us," one person said of Zuckerberg.An attorney for the state warned that there would be “very sensitive and very explicit material discussed in terms of safety to children” during the trial.More than 40 state attorneys general have filed lawsuits against Meta, claiming it is deliberately designing features that addict children to its platforms.
The majority filed their lawsuits in federal court, and New Mexico's case against Meta is the first to reach trial.
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