A former engineering director at Meta Platforms testified that CEO Mark Zuckerberg prioritised growth and engagement over child safety. Arturo Bejar made this assertion during a landmark trial in Oakland, California. This testimony supports claims by a coalition of US states against the social media giant.
Bejar stated that Zuckerberg's direct involvement meant product design changes only occurred if he ordered them. He highlighted a culture where child safety was secondary to increasing user numbers and engagement. This trial addresses accusations that Meta designed platforms to hook young users, leading to anxiety and depression.
This legal challenge fits into a broader global discussion about tech company accountability and user well-being. Governments and regulators worldwide are increasingly scrutinising social media's impact on young people. The outcome could set a precedent for how tech firms operate and design their products. This trial also reflects growing concerns about data privacy, especially for minors, a topic of increasing importance in Ghana's digital economy discussions.
Arturo Bejar, who worked at Meta from 2009 to 2015 and later as a contractor, told the court that Meta's internal tools for encouraging user breaks were "designed to fail." He also claimed Meta had technology to flag millions of underage users but adopted a "don't ask, don't tell" policy. This approach, he suggested, aimed to boost long-term profits.
The trial's implications are substantial, potentially reshaping Facebook and Instagram's future operations. If Meta is found liable, it could face significant civil penalties and be forced to implement major platform changes. Investors and policymakers will closely watch the proceedings, as a verdict against Meta could impact market valuations and regulatory frameworks for tech companies globally. The case also highlights the increasing legal risks associated with user data and platform design choices.
States like California, Colorado, Kentucky, and New Jersey accuse Meta of misleading consumers about platform safety. They also allege Meta violated federal law by improperly collecting personal data from children under 13. This legal action represents the biggest test yet of social media's effects on young users. The trial is expected to last six weeks, with a US District Judge deciding Meta's liability.
Bejar's testimony directly contradicted Zuckerberg's 2021 comments that Meta constantly used research to improve its products. Bejar emailed Zuckerberg to flag safety concerns, stating, "You just cannot trust Mark Zuckerberg with kids." He also recounted his daughter's experience with misogynistic comments on Instagram, highlighting personal harm despite her gaining a large following.
Meta's lawyer, Brian Stekloff, cross-examined Bejar, who acknowledged not working directly with Zuckerberg during his second stint as a contractor. Bejar also admitted that Meta employs hundreds of people focused on safety. However, he maintained that the company prioritised engagement and profit over user well-being.
The trial follows thousands of similar lawsuits against Meta regarding alleged harm to children. One previous case, brought by New Mexico, resulted in GHS 942 million in damages and penalties. That ruling also required Meta to change its platforms in the state. The current trial could lead to similar or even larger financial repercussions and operational changes for the company. The total potential damages from all lawsuits could reach billions of Ghana cedis, impacting Meta's financial outlook.