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New Mexico Sues Meta Over Child Sexual Exploitation on Social Media
Trial focuses on whether Meta misrepresented the safety of its platforms and failed to protect children from predators.
Published on Feb. 9, 2026
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A trial is set to begin in New Mexico against Meta, the parent company of Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, over allegations that the company misrepresented the safety of its platforms and failed to protect children from sexual exploitation. The state's attorney general built the case by posing as kids on social media and documenting the arrival of sexual solicitations, as well as Meta's response. Prosecutors allege Meta's algorithms and features enticed and addicted young people, creating a 'breeding ground' for predators, while failing to disclose what it knew about these harmful effects.
Why it matters
This case highlights the growing concerns around the dangers of child sexual exploitation on social media platforms and whether tech companies like Meta have been transparent about the risks and taken adequate measures to protect vulnerable users. It could set a precedent for other state-level lawsuits against social media giants over harm to minors.
The details
New Mexico Attorney General Raúl Torrez sued Meta in 2023, alleging the company violated state consumer protection laws by failing to disclose what it knew about the harmful effects of its platforms on children. Prosecutors say they will provide evidence and testimony that Meta's algorithms and features enticed and addicted young people, creating a 'breeding ground' for predators targeting children for sexual exploitation. Meta denies any legal violations and says prosecutors are cherry-picking evidence to make sensationalist arguments.
- The trial is set to begin with opening statements on Monday, February 9, 2026.
- The lawsuit was filed by New Mexico Attorney General Raúl Torrez in 2023.
The players
Raúl Torrez
The New Mexico Attorney General who filed the lawsuit against Meta in 2023.
Meta
The parent company of Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, which is being sued by the New Mexico Attorney General over allegations of misrepresenting the safety of its platforms and failing to protect children from sexual exploitation.
What they’re saying
“For over a decade, we've listened to parents, worked with experts and law enforcement, and conducted in-depth research to understand the issues that matter most. We're proud of the progress we've made.”
— Meta, Company spokesperson (Meta statement)
What’s next
It's unclear whether Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg will testify at the trial, as New Mexico limits the ability to compel out-of-state witnesses to testify in person, while prosecutors can present testimony by Zuckerberg from a deposition.
The takeaway
This case highlights the ongoing debate around the responsibility of social media companies to protect children from exploitation and harmful content on their platforms. The outcome could set a precedent for how states hold tech giants accountable for the impacts of their products on vulnerable users.
