Top Stories· August 17, 2026 at 04:06 p.m.
California Trial Against Meta Could Determine Company's Fate in Alleged Violations
Key takeaways
- Meta faces allegations of fostering addictive behavior on Facebook and Instagram
- The trial involves 29 state attorneys general
- Penalties could reach $200 billion if Meta loses
A trial beginning Tuesday in California could significantly impact Meta, as the company faces allegations of fostering addictive behavior on Facebook and Instagram. The case, co-led by California Attorney General Rob Bonta, is part of a unified action against Meta by 29 state attorneys general, brought in 2023. If Meta loses, penalties could be severe, including changes to key algorithms and potential damages reaching $200 billion. The trial follows a recent loss for Meta in New Mexico, where the company was ordered to pay nearly $1 billion.
