Technology Desk: Problems for Meta Platforms have increased regarding the social media use of children and teenagers. Amidst allegations of keeping children engaged on Instagram and Facebook for longer periods of time and affecting their mental health, Meta has agreed to a settlement with American states worth about $18 billion i.e. about Rs 1.7 lakh crore.
This case is also special because it is being considered a major turning point regarding the safety of children in the world of social media.
Accused of keeping children glued to the app
US states alleged that Meta designed features on its platform that encourage children and teenagers to open the app repeatedly and use it for long periods of time. Special questions were raised on features like unlimited scrolling, like button and continuous notifications. The allegation was that these could have a negative impact on the mental health of children.
Now rules will change for children
Under the agreement, Meta will have to make several changes to its platform to protect children and teens. These include steps like reducing screen time, stopping social media use at night and limiting notifications.
Strict action will also be taken against content related to bullying, body shaming, eating disorders and self-harm that harm children.
48 states will get money
Under the agreement, an amount of about $18 billion will be given in 10 years. This includes 48 US states, Washington DC and some US territories.
California is said to get at least $1.5 billion. This money can be used for children's mental health, digital literacy, after-school programs and other social schemes.
Meta also surrounded TikTok and YouTube
An interesting twist in the matter came when Meta said that child safety rules should not be limited to its platform only. The company wants TikTok and YouTube to also implement rules like strict screen time for children, ban on use at night and age verification. Meta argues that if restrictions are imposed only on its platform, children will move to other social media apps.
But two states did not accept the agreement
New Mexico and Florida are left out of this larger agreement. There has already been a court decision against Meta in New Mexico.
The Attorney General of Florida refused to accept the agreement. He says that considering Meta's earnings and the alleged loss caused to the children, even this huge amount is not enough.
Will children really be safe now?
This is the biggest question. The agreement is being considered a big step towards the online safety of children, but experts say that just one agreement will not solve the problem. Strict and permanent regulations on social media companies are necessary for the entire industry.