Meta agrees to $17 billion settlement, new safeguards for minors on Facebook and Instagram

Meta has agreed to pay up to $17 billion and implement sweeping changes to its Facebook and Instagram platforms aimed at minors, as part of a legal settlement that abruptly ended a US federal trial over allegations the platforms harmed children.

US media reported that the settlement was reached with 29 states and requires Meta to strengthen age verification measures, impose usage time limits, introduce nighttime restrictions, and mandate breaks for underage users.

The measures also include banning certain features targeted at young users, such as appearance-altering photo filters.

The obligations imposed on Meta under the agreement are set to remain in effect for ten years, pending court approval of the settlement.