EU threatens Meta with fines over 'addictive' Facebook and Instagram
Summary
The European Union has warned Meta that Facebook and Instagram’s design features, like endless scrolling and autoplay videos, encourage addictive use, especially among children and teenagers. If Meta does not make changes, it could face fines up to 6% of its global annual revenue.Key Facts
- The EU’s European Commission found that features like infinite scroll and autoplay can lead to compulsive use.
- The Commission is especially concerned about the mental and physical health effects on young users.
- Meta did not sufficiently assess the risks or the time children spend on its platforms, especially at night.
- Features such as Reels and Stories may contribute to excessive usage.
- Meta’s current time-management and parental control tools are seen as ineffective by the EU.
- Meta has introduced Teen Accounts with protections like night-time blocks and daily screen time limits.
- The findings are preliminary; Meta can respond before any final decision.
- The EU is increasing pressure on big tech companies to protect children online.
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