New Mexico judge ordered Meta to pay $25 billion after misleading consumers about data privacy
Jury found privacy misrepresentations
The case focused on allegations that Facebook misled users about a breach involving a third-party personality quiz. The quiz collected data from roughly 87 million profiles, which was then sold to political consulting firm Cambridge Analytica for targeted advertising.
Torrez says ruling sends message
In a news conference, Torrez said the judgment should deliver an “unambiguous message” to Silicon Valley. He later said the case concerned more than a single company or scandal.
New Mexico’s constitution directs consumer protection fines to state education spending. Torrez said the award could fund school construction for the next 100 years, but the money may remain tied up if Meta appeals, as expected.
Meta disputed state’s case
New Mexico’s attorneys sought between $35 billion and $40 billion, arguing that only a sum large enough to affect Meta’s stock price would prompt the company to change its conduct. Meta argued that the state had not proved its executives made misleading privacy statements or that the company’s content moderation practices harmed New Mexico residents.
Key points
- A New Mexico judge ordered Meta to pay the state $25 billion.
- The jury found that senior Meta leaders misrepresented data privacy policies.
- The case involved data from roughly 87 million profiles and Cambridge Analytica.
- Meta is expected to appeal, potentially delaying education funding.