New Mexico Sues Meta Over Child Sexual Exploitation on Social Media

Trial focuses on whether Meta misrepresented the safety of its platforms and exposed children to harm.

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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A trial focused on the dangers of child sexual exploitation on social media and whether Meta misrepresented the safety of its platforms is set to start in New Mexico. New Mexico Attorney General Raúl Torrez sued Meta in 2023, alleging the company's algorithms and account features enticed and addicted young people to social media while creating a 'breeding ground' for predators. Prosecutors say they will provide evidence that Meta failed to disclose what it knew about these harmful effects, in violation of state consumer protection laws.

Why it matters

This case highlights growing concerns about the impact of social media on child safety and mental health. It is the first stand-alone trial from state prosecutors in a stream of lawsuits against major tech companies over harm to children, and could set a precedent for how these issues are addressed.

The details

Prosecutors built the case by posing as kids through social media accounts, then documenting the arrival of sexual solicitations and Meta's response. They allege Meta's algorithms and features created a 'breeding ground' for predators targeting children, while the company failed to disclose what it knew about these harms. Meta denies any legal violations and says prosecutors are cherry-picking evidence.

  • The trial is set to start with opening statements on Monday, February 9, 2026.
  • New Mexico Attorney General Raúl Torrez sued Meta in 2023.

The players

Raúl Torrez

The New Mexico Attorney General who sued Meta in 2023 over the dangers of child sexual exploitation on social media.

Meta

The parent company of Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, which is being sued by the New Mexico Attorney General.

Mark Zuckerberg

The CEO of Meta, who may testify at the trial.

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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)

“Quite frankly, he's the tech bro making money off of all of us.”

— Potential juror (Jury selection)

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.

The takeaway

This case highlights the growing concerns about the impact of social media on child safety and mental health, and could set a precedent for how these issues are addressed by state prosecutors against major tech companies.