meta hit record
|

Meta hit with record $567m child safety fine

ByJustpaste.in

A US judge in New Mexico has ordered Meta to pay $567 million over allegations that its social media platforms failed to adequately protect children from harmful content and online risks.

The ruling is the largest penalty Meta has faced in a child safety case. It brings the total amount the company has been ordered to pay in the New Mexico case to $942 million, including an earlier $375 million penalty.

Judge Bryan Biedscheid ruled that Meta’s platforms had created harms serious enough to be considered a “public nuisance”. He compared the company’s operations to a factory, saying harmful effects on children spread beyond the platforms and affect families, schools, healthcare providers and law enforcement.

The judge ordered the money to be placed in a fund designed to address the impact of social media-related harm on children.

A large portion of the fund, about $420 million, will support clinical and behavioural health programmes for people affected by such harms. Additional funding will be used for awareness and prevention programmes, including training for teachers and healthcare professionals.

The court also imposed a series of measures aimed at strengthening protections for users under 18.

Meta will be required to prevent adult users from messaging minors and stop accounts belonging to users under 18 from being recommended to adults. The company must also restrict the sending and receiving of nude material by underage users.

The ruling further requires Meta to adopt a strict policy against adult users involved in child sexual exploitation.

Other restrictions include removing “like” counts for users under 18 and limiting push notifications during overnight hours. Notifications will also be restricted during normal school hours on school days.

The court additionally ordered a monthly usage limit of 90 hours across Instagram and Facebook for users under 18.

Meta, which operates Instagram, Facebook, WhatsApp and Threads, rejected the ruling and said it would appeal.

The company said it works to protect users and has been transparent about the challenges of detecting harmful content and malicious actors. Meta also maintained that the ruling does not accurately reflect its efforts to protect teenagers online.

The New Mexico case began with a lawsuit filed by state authorities in 2023. Prosecutors argued that Meta’s platforms exposed children to harmful material and enabled contact with sexual predators.

During the earlier stage of the case, Meta was found to have violated New Mexico’s consumer protection law. The court determined that its recommendation systems could direct young users towards harmful content and potentially dangerous contacts.

Meta is facing thousands of similar lawsuits across the United States. Nearly three dozen state attorneys general are also pursuing claims involving the company’s treatment of children and their privacy.

Similar Posts

  • | |

    Shehzad Roy and Tabish Hashmi to tour US for Zindagi Trust

    ByJustpaste.in

    Singer, activist and philanthropist Shehzad Roy is heading to the United States next month, and this time he is bringing comedian and actor Tabish Hashmi along for the journey. The two have announced Zindagi Trust’s annual fundraising dinner tour, scheduled to take place across six American cities between September 18 and 25, with the aim of rallying support from the Pakistani diaspora for one of the country’s most pressing challenges: quality public education. Roy shared the announcement through a video posted on his Instagram account, speaking with the urgency and conviction that has come to define his advocacy work over many years. He was direct about what the tour was trying to achieve and why the Pakistani diaspora’s involvement matters. “That time is not far when people in Pakistan won’t have to beg for education, and parents will be able to send their children to government schools with confidence, knowing they will learn from the best local teachers,” Roy said. He also emphasised the structural reforms he believes are essential to getting there. “We also need proper licensing and qualifications for teachers,” he added. Speaking about the tour itself and what it would offer those who attend, Roy described it as an opportunity for supporters to understand the full picture of what Zindagi Trust has been doing on the ground. “We are coming to share how the organisation is changing the paradigm for government schools and government teachers,” he said. His invitation to the diaspora was direct and personal. “We will share everything that has been accomplished, what still needs to be done, and how each of you can play an integral part in this cause. So please be there,” he said. Roy also explained his decision to bring Hashmi along as a companion for the tour, offering what is clearly both a personal and strategic reason. “He is a great entertainer and will bring happiness into your lives. The reason I am bringing him is because he truly believes in our cause,” he said. The combination of Roy’s advocacy record and Hashmi’s ability to connect with audiences through humour and warmth suggests an event format designed to be as engaging as it is purposeful. The tour will take in Chicago, New Jersey, Washington, Dallas, Houston and San Francisco, covering a significant spread of cities with large Pakistani diaspora communities. Zindagi Trust was founded by Roy with the mission of transforming Pakistan’s public school system, improving access to quality education for children who would otherwise have no alternative, and raising the professional standing of government school teachers across the country. Over the years, Roy has remained one of Pakistan’s most persistent and credible voices on children’s rights and education reform, using his platform as an artist to keep the conversation alive in ways that formal advocacy alone rarely manages. The American tour represents an effort to extend that conversation beyond Pakistan’s borders and bring those who have left the country into a direct relationship with the work being done on the ground. For the communities in those six cities, September’s fundraising dinners will offer both an evening of entertainment and a meaningful opportunity to contribute to something real.

  • | |

    Jason Sudeikis praises Justin Bieber after memorab…

    ByJustpaste.in

    Jason Sudeikis has nothing but admiration for Justin Bieber following the singer’s widely praised performance at the 2026 FIFA World Cup halftime show. The actor and comedian recently reflected on his surprise appearance as Ted Lasso, revealing that working with Bieber was an enjoyable experience and describing the pop star as “a very coachable young man.” Speaking during an episode of the A Lot More podcast, scheduled for release on August 8, Sudeikis looked back on his cameo in the halftime show, which blended music, comedy and the uplifting spirit of his beloved Ted Lasso character. The actor said he was thrilled to be part of such a global event and praised everyone involved in bringing the production together. (people.com⁠) During the interview, Sudeikis shared that he spent time working with Bieber before the performance, offering encouragement and a few lighthearted coaching moments inspired by Ted Lasso’s optimistic approach. While speaking about the experience, he said Bieber was eager to collaborate, listened carefully to creative ideas and embraced the process with humility. Sudeikis explained that Bieber’s willingness to take direction made rehearsals enjoyable. He joked that the singer was “very coachable,” adding that Bieber approached every suggestion with enthusiasm and professionalism. The actor noted that despite being one of the world’s biggest music stars, Bieber remained open to feedback and focused on delivering the best possible performance for fans. The 2026 FIFA World Cup halftime show attracted global attention, combining live music with special guest appearances that celebrated the tournament’s international appeal. Bieber’s energetic performance quickly became one of the event’s biggest talking points, with fans praising both the production and the surprise appearance by Sudeikis as Ted Lasso. The collaboration also delighted viewers because it brought together two widely admired figures from different areas of entertainment. Bieber, known for his chart-topping music career, and Sudeikis, celebrated for his Emmy-winning portrayal of Ted Lasso, shared a lighthearted chemistry that added warmth and humor to the spectacle. Sudeikis also spoke about the lasting popularity of Ted Lasso, saying he enjoys seeing how the character continues to inspire people through messages of kindness, teamwork and optimism. Bringing those qualities to one of the world’s biggest sporting events, he said, felt like a natural fit. Fans have responded positively to Sudeikis’ comments, with many appreciating his praise for Bieber’s work ethic and attitude. His remarks offered a behind-the-scenes look at the collaboration and highlighted the respect that developed between the two stars. As excitement surrounding the halftime show continues, Sudeikis’ reflections reinforce why the performance resonated with audiences worldwide. By combining entertainment, humor and heartfelt encouragement, the collaboration created a memorable moment that celebrated both music and sport while reminding fans that great performances are built on teamwork, preparation and mutual respect.

  • |

    North Korea official blasts ASEAN for urging denuclearisation

    ByJustpaste.in

    Kim Yo Jong, the influential sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and a central figure in Pyongyang’s foreign policy, has launched a fierce verbal attack against the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) following calls for the complete denuclearisation of the Korean Peninsula. In an official statement published by the state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), she condemned the position adopted at last week’s annual ASEAN Regional Forum in Manila as “stupid and foolish”, dismissing regional hopes for nuclear disarmament as an outdated delusion. The dispute was triggered by the release of the ASEAN Regional Forum chair’s statement, in which foreign ministers from across the Indo-Pacific region expressed grave concern over North Korea’s continued development of nuclear weapons and ballistic missile programs. The joint declaration urged compliance with relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions and called for international dialogue to achieve lasting peace and stability through a peaceful, denuclearised peninsula. Kim Yo Jong expressed strong dissatisfaction with the bloc, accusing ASEAN of displaying an undisguised hostile attitude and acting as a hired mouthpiece for the United States. She argued that adhering to the concept of denuclearisation represents a complete failure of strategic logic, stating that the objective has lost all meaning both conceptually and practically. She further accused the regional body of ignoring North Korea’s national constitution, which was updated in 2023 to formally enshrine its status as a nuclear-armed state. Pyongyang has maintained for years that its nuclear arsenal serves as an essential deterrence mechanism to protect national sovereignty, despite facing heavy international sanctions and prohibitions from the UN Security Council. Reaffirming the regime’s stance that its nuclear capabilities represent a “line of no retreat”, Kim Yo Jong emphasised that North Korea’s nuclear status is final and completely irreversible, adding that its arsenal will continue to be updated steadily without pause regardless of external pressure or diplomatic rhetoric.

  • | |

    Court grants interim bail to business partner’s …

    ByJustpaste.in

      A Karachi Additional District and Sessions Court has granted interim bail to Abdullah, the brother of the business partner of young trader Mir Raza Ali, in connection with the businessman’s murder case. The court approved Abdullah’s interim pre-arrest bail until September 1, providing him temporary protection from arrest while the investigation into the case continues. Abdullah had approached the court seeking bail before arrest after being allegedly linked to the investigation surrounding Mir Raza Ali’s death. During the hearing, the court also issued notices to the investigating officer and the complainant in the case. The judge directed the applicant to submit surety bonds worth Rs100,000 as part of the conditions attached to the interim bail. According to Abdullah’s lawyer, there was no basis for treating his client as a suspect in the murder. The lawyer informed the court that Abdullah had a business-related connection with Mir Raza and used to supply chocolates to him. The defence further explained that Abdullah had spoken to Mir Raza by telephone on the night when the young trader left his home. According to the lawyer, the phone conversation took place at around 3:30am. The lawyer argued that the late-night phone call should be viewed in the context of their regular business dealings rather than being treated as evidence of involvement in the alleged crime. The defence also accused the police of harassing Abdullah during the investigation. His lawyer told the court that law-enforcement officials were repeatedly troubling the applicant despite the absence of any established evidence connecting him directly to the murder. The lawyer maintained that communication between Abdullah and Mir Raza at around the same time was not unusual. He explained that after completing his work, Mir Raza would generally speak with the applicant around that time. The defence therefore requested the court to provide Abdullah with protection from arrest while the authorities continued investigating the circumstances surrounding Mir Raza Ali’s death. After hearing the arguments, the court granted interim bail until September 1 and directed the relevant parties, including the investigating officer and complainant, to respond to the bail application. The applicant was also ordered to submit the required surety bonds. The court’s decision does not amount to a final determination regarding Abdullah’s involvement in the case. The interim bail merely prevents his immediate arrest while the matter is considered further by the court. The murder investigation remains ongoing, and the police are expected to examine the circumstances surrounding Mir Raza’s death, including his final movements, communications and interactions with people connected to him. The late-night telephone conversation between Mir Raza and Abdullah is among the details that investigators may consider while establishing a timeline of events. However, the defence has maintained that the conversation was consistent with their normal business-related communication. The case has attracted attention because of the young trader’s death and the subsequent investigation into people associated with him. Abdullah’s decision to seek pre-arrest bail indicates that he feared possible arrest during the investigation. The court’s issuance of notices to the investigating officer and complainant means that the prosecution and police will have an opportunity to present their position regarding the allegations and the bail request. For now, Abdullah remains protected by the interim bail order until September 1, subject to the conditions imposed by the court. Further proceedings are expected to determine the next legal steps in the case and whether the investigating authorities have sufficient evidence to proceed against him.

  • | |

    Niall Horan surprises Off Campus star Ella Bright with secret duet as fans celebrate unexpected collaboration

    ByJustpaste.in

    Niall Horan has delighted fans with another unexpected collaboration, this time joining Off Campus actress and singer Ella Bright, who plays music major Hannah Wells in the hit Prime Video series. The former One Direction star secretly recorded vocals for Bright’s rendition of the classic “Baby Now That I Found You,” transforming the solo recording into a duet without her knowledge. The surprise arrives during a particularly busy period for Horan. Earlier this month, he joined country star Thomas Rhettas a special guest for two stadium shows, including a performance at Hersheypark Stadium. During the appearances, Horan and Rhett performed their collaboration “Old Tricks” before treating audiences to a surprise performance of One Direction’s “Steal My Girl.” The crossover performances highlighted Horan’s versatility and were met with enthusiastic reactions from concertgoers, with clips quickly circulating across social media. In a video shared on his official Instagram account, Horan introduced the latest surprise with a heartfelt message before Bright heard the finished track for the first time. “You don’t know this yet, but you’re about to listen to our version of ‘Baby Now That I Found You,’” Horan said. The duet is featured on Off Campus: The Mixtape (Extra Credit) and is set for release alongside the expanded soundtrack. Bright’s reaction quickly won over fans as she listened in disbelief before smiling and revealing she had no idea Horan had been invited to add his vocals, making the moment a genuine surprise. Fans across social media have responded enthusiastically to the collaboration, with many praising the natural harmony between Horan and Bright’s voices and calling the duet one of the soundtrack’s most anticipated releases. Several listeners compared the song’s warm acoustic feel and heartfelt delivery to Horan’s 2017 debut solo single, “This Town,” a track that remains a fan favourite. Others applauded Horan for supporting an emerging artist and introducing the duet in such a thoughtful way. The collaboration adds another memorable chapter to Horan’s recent run of performances and musical partnerships. Following weeks of anticipation sparked by their live debut, “Baby Now That I Found You” has now been officially released on all major streaming platforms as part of the Off Campus soundtrack. Fans have praised the duo’s effortless vocal chemistry and emotional delivery, with many already calling the song one of the soundtrack’s standout tracks. The release has further fueled excitement among listeners, who have welcomed the studio version after its well-received live performances. https://www.instagram.com/reel/DbJQbpXNC0I/?igsh=MXRqM2Roc3o4cXNpeg==

  • | |

    Hafiz Naeem targets IPP deals, fuel prices

    ByJustpaste.in

    Jamaat-e-Islami Emir Hafiz Naeemur Rehman has strongly criticised the government over rising fuel prices, heavy taxation and electricity costs. Addressing participants at the party’s sit-in in Lahore, Hafiz Naeemur Rehman said the government was putting an increasing financial burden on ordinary citizens. He demanded the immediate withdrawal of the recent increase in petrol and diesel prices. He said the petroleum levy had no direct connection with the actual price of petrol. He questioned the justification for repeatedly increasing fuel prices and said the government was making life more difficult for the public. “The government drops a petrol bomb on us every day,” he said. Hafiz Naeemur Rehman also criticised the government’s policies regarding independent power producers (IPPs). He alleged that successive governments had entered into unfair agreements with IPPs in the name of ending load-shedding. According to him, the government was now passing the cost of its own shortcomings on to the people through higher taxes. He said citizens were already struggling with expensive electricity and gas bills. The Jamaat-e-Islami leader said heavy taxes were being imposed on electricity and gas bills. He argued that such charges were increasing household expenses and adding to the difficulties faced by ordinary consumers. Hafiz Naeemur Rehman further said the government had shut down five of the 27 IPPs. He referred to the government’s own claim that the move would provide a benefit of Rs3,360 billion to the national exchequer. He questioned why similar measures could not be taken to provide lasting relief to consumers. He said the government should focus on reducing electricity costs instead of continuously increasing taxes and other charges. The Jamaat-e-Islami emir also criticised the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR). He alleged that corruption within the tax collection system remained widespread. He called for greater transparency and accountability in government institutions. He said economic policies should be designed to provide relief to the public rather than increase their financial difficulties.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *