Meta prioritised profits over child safety, ex-engineer tells US court

Arturo Bejar, who previously directed engineering at Meta and has testified before Congress on child safety issues, told a federal jury in Oakland, California on Wednesday that the social media giant consistently prioritised engagement and revenue over the wellbeing of young users. According to Bejar's testimony on the second day of the trial, Meta's product design fundamentally hinged on maximising how frequently and for how long users remained on the platform, regardless of potential mental health impacts. 'If you step away from the product, they are not going to make any money,' Bejar stated during cross-examination.

The trial, which commenced Tuesday in federal court in Oakland, represents a significant legal challenge to Meta's practices. Four US states—California, Colorado, Kentucky and New Jersey—are prosecuting the case, which is expected to continue for approximately six weeks. These states are among 29 that filed lawsuits against Meta in 2023 alleging violations of child safety and privacy standards, with the remaining 25 cases scheduled for later trial dates. Meta additionally faces separate litigation in state courts, including proceedings currently underway in Tennessee.

Bejar's testimony centres on Meta's alleged indifference to protecting children under 13 on its platforms, with the lawsuit challenging the company's approach to child safety protocols. The trial is expected to establish precedent for how technology companies should balance commercial interests with protection of minors online.