Meta’s annus horribilis: Why it was hit with the largest fine ever imposed on a tech company

Meta has been fined $25 billion by New Mexico for misleading users about data privacy, marking the largest penalty against a tech company. This follows a $17 billion settlement related to social media's impact on youth. The lawsuit, stemming from the Cambridge Analytica scandal, revealed 43 million violations of state consumer protection laws. The fine, while substantial, is less than half of Meta's profits this year. New Mexico's attorney general has been proactive in protecting digital rights, leading to multiple fines against Meta. The company argues the ruling threatens its operations and raises free speech concerns. Further legal challenges regarding social media's effects on minors are anticipated.