EU threatens Meta with fines over 'addictive' Facebook and Instagram
The European Commission has warned Meta that its 'addictive' design features on Facebook and Instagram, such as infinite scrolling, must be changed to protect minors. Failure to comply could result in fines of up to 6% of the company's global annual turnover.
Why it matters
This represents a significant regulatory push by the EU to hold major tech platforms accountable for the mental health impacts of their user interface designs.
Image source, Getty Images By Shiona McCallum Senior technology reporter Published 12 minutes ago Meta must change Facebook's and Instagram's "addictive" design or face a heavy fine, the EU has warned.
In its preliminary findings, the European Commission said features such as infinite scroll, autoplaying videos and personalised recommendations could encourage "compulsive use", particularly among children and teens.
If Meta does not make suitable changes, it could be fined up to 6% of its total global annual turnover.
A spokesperson for the tech giant told the BBC it disagreed with the findings "which don't accurately take into account the significant steps we've taken to protect teens".
In the preliminary findings, the Commission said the endless stream of content "shift the brain into autopilot mode, contributing to unhealthy habits".
In particular, it is particularly concerned about the impact social media platforms may have on younger users.
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