Meta's second major trial of 2026 began Monday in Santa Fe, New Mexico. The case concerns harms to children. Attorney General Raúl Torrez alleges Meta knowingly facilitated an environment on Facebook and Instagram. This environment exposed children to sexual exploitation, solicitation, and human trafficking.
Torrez alleges Meta prioritized user engagement over safety. The lawsuit claims Meta's design choices and profit motives failed to implement necessary safeguards. This failure allowed harmful content to proliferate.
A Meta spokesperson responded that the company focuses on its longstanding commitment to supporting young people. Meta has worked with experts and law enforcement for over a decade. This work introduced protections and parental tools.