22 August 2026
Meta is facing what could be its most consequential trial yet, as 29 state attorneys general accuse the tech giant of knowingly designing Facebook and Instagram to addict children and misleading the public about the risks.
The states are seeking civil penalties that could approach $200 billion and changes to core features like infinite scroll and autoplay, while Meta says the claims are unsubstantiated and that it has built strong protections for teens.
The outcome of the federal trial could reshape how social media platforms are designed and open the door to greater liability for companies across the industry.
CNBC’s Julia Boorstin examines why this case could become Big Tech’s “Big Tobacco” moment, and what a loss could mean for Meta’s business and the future of social media. Reporter: Julia Boorstin Produced and Edited by: Andrew Evers Senior Field Producer: Stephen Desaulniers Additional Editing: Erin Black Senior Director of Video: Jeniece Pettitt Additional Footage: Getty Images
26 August 2026
