A jury in Santa Fe, New Mexico, has found that Meta Platforms misled state residents about Facebook’s handling of user data and some of its policies on harmful content.
The case arose from allegations connected to Cambridge Analytica, which obtained information from millions of Facebook users through a third-party application without their consent.
Jurors concluded that 26 of 29 statements identified by the state were misleading, including claims concerning data practices, hate speech and misinformation.
Meta rejected the verdict and said it would continue defending its record, arguing that users receive controls over their information and that the company protects free expression.
A judge will determine the financial consequences after jurors found more than 43 million violations; New Mexico law allows civil penalties of up to $5,000 for each violation.
The state also plans to request operational changes, potentially including corrections to earlier statements and an audit of how the company manages personal data.
The verdict adds to growing legal pressure on major technology platforms to explain data-sharing practices clearly and demonstrate that public promises match internal systems.
Source: Reuters, 25 September 2026.
Featured photo: dole777 via Unsplash.
Zeynep Aziz is a social-affairs specialist, writer and advocate with advanced academic qualifications in both Social Sciences and International Relations. Her multidisciplinary education has given her a strong understanding of society, public policy, human rights and the political forces shaping Turkey’s domestic and international development.
For many years, Zeynep has been actively engaged in social affairs and initiatives supporting the rights and well-being of Turkish citizens. Her work pays particular attention to social equality, democratic participation and the protection of vulnerable and disadvantaged communities.
Women’s rights remain central to her interests and advocacy. She works to raise awareness of the challenges faced by women in Turkey, including discrimination, violence, unequal opportunities and barriers to full participation in political, professional and social life. She strongly supports women’s empowerment, equal access to education and employment, and effective legal protection for women and girls.
Alongside her social work, Zeynep closely follows Turkey’s international relations and foreign policy. She takes a keen interest in Turkey’s relations with Europe, neighbouring countries and international institutions, as well as the impact of regional and global developments on Turkish society.
Through her writing and public engagement, Zeynep seeks to encourage informed discussion, strengthen respect for human rights and contribute to a fairer, more democratic and inclusive Turkey.
Zeynep Aziz
