Meta settles in US states lawsuit on teen user addiction

Meta has agreed to a settlement that could see the company pay billions of dollars and impose new usage restrictions on its platforms for young users. The deal follows a multistate lawsuit filed by several U.S. states that accused Meta of contributing to addiction and overuse among children, arguing that the company’s design and advertising practices encouraged excessive engagement.

Under the terms, Meta will implement limits on screen time and other features aimed at reducing compulsive use by minors, while also contributing to a fund that will support research and education on digital well‑being. The settlement represents a significant step toward addressing the states’ concerns about the impact of social media on youth, and it obliges Meta to adopt policies that prioritize safer user experiences for younger audiences.