Meta Threatens to Pull Its Apps from New Mexico if Forced to Make ‘Technologically Impractical’ Changes

The Attorney General of New Mexico has warned that Meta might have to withdraw its platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp from the state due to demands that the company deems unachievable. Following a $375 million jury verdict against Meta for allegedly misleading users about product safety, the Attorney General is pushing for significant platform changes. These include banning end-to-end encryption for minors, implementing age verification, and ensuring the detection of 99% of new child sexual abuse material. Meta argues that these demands are vague and could infringe on its due process rights, claiming compliance might require creating state-specific apps or even withdrawing from New Mexico entirely. The company highlights the impracticality of achieving the required accuracy in detecting CSAM and rejecting underage accounts, stating no current social platform has entirely eliminated such content. Meta also argues changes in its age verification methods could hinder accuracy and conflict with federal laws. In contrast, the Attorney General believes Meta has the capability but lacks the will to prioritize child safety over profits. He anticipates that resistance may soon restrict Meta’s presence in other states as well. Meta claims its existing features address many state concerns and suggests minor adjustments and funding for training law enforcement in online safety as a compromise.