New Mexico Trial Pits State Against Meta, Focusing on Child Safety and Exploitation

Fri Mar 13 2026 21:57:08 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

A landmark trial in New Mexico examines whether Meta, the parent company of Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, has misrepresented the safety of its platforms in a case involving child sexual exploitation. The trial is part of broader scrutiny of social media companies regarding their impact on youth.

The state of New Mexico is set to begin a trial against Meta, alleging that the company's social media platforms knowingly expose children to sexual exploitation and mental health risks. Prosecutors argue that Meta's algorithms are harmful, while the company defends its practices as ethical and supportive of youth. This case represents the first standalone trial of many targeting social media giants over their impact on minors.

SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — A trial focusing on child sexual exploitation and safety concerns surrounding social media platforms will begin in New Mexico with opening statements set for Monday. The case marks the first standalone trial initiated by state prosecutors as part of a larger wave of lawsuits against major social media companies regarding harms to children.

New Mexico Attorney General Raúl Torrez filed a lawsuit against Meta in 2023, after his team posed as minors on social media accounts, documenting instances of sexual solicitation and Meta's responses. Prosecutors aim to demonstrate that Meta's algorithms and features not only entice youth but also create opportunities for predators targeting children.

The lawsuit argues that Meta has failed to disclose what it knows about these dangers, which violates state consumer protection laws. It further claims that the company has created a public nuisance and profits from exposing children to sexual exploitation and mental health issues.

“Meta knowingly exposes children to the twin dangers of sexual exploitation and mental health harm,” the lawsuit states. The company disputes the allegations, claiming the state’s investigation is ethically flawed and accusing prosecutors of selective evidence use to sensationalize the issue.

Meta has emphasized its commitment to youth safety, showcasing multiple features that aim to protect teens and enhance their online experience. However, critics argue that the platforms are inherently designed to be addictive and expose children to harmful content.

As the trial begins, with over 200 jurors selected, questions about social media's impact on mental health, including the potential consequences for children, are expected to surface. Critics point to a need for better age verification and adjustments to algorithms while proponents of Meta argue for the complexities behind child mental health challenges.

This case comes amid similar legal challenges, with over 40 state attorneys general pursuing claims against Meta for allegedly designing features that attract young users. New Mexico's case is significant as it is the first to progress to trial, potentially setting a precedent for future actions against social media companies.