New Mexico Judge Orders Meta to Pay $25 Billion Over Data Privacy

A New Mexico judge has ordered Meta to pay the state $25 billion in civil penalties following a jury's finding that Facebook intentionally misled consumers about data privacy and control. The ruling comes after a trial where Facebook admitted its primary asset is a network of users and the personal data they generate.

The judge initially proposed a $219 billion penalty but reduced it to $25 billion. The jury found Facebook liable for 26 false or misleading statements about user privacy, including broken promises regarding data access by third parties.

The case highlights concerns over how Facebook managed user data and privacy assurances. The judge's decision underscores the legal consequences of misleading consumers about data control and access.