Google, Meta Platforms, and Online Privacy: The Utah Law Challenge
Google and Meta Platforms Under Fire in Utah Privacy Law Case
A federal judge in Utah has temporarily blocked a social media access law designed to secure children's personal privacy, asserting its unconstitutionality.
The Lawsuit Against Utah's Social Media Act
U.S. District Court Judge Robert Shelby issued a preliminary injunction against the Utah Minor Protection in Social Media Act, which mandated social media companies to verify user ages, enforce privacy settings, and limit certain account features.
Background on the Legislation
- The law was set to begin on October 1.
- NetChoice, a trade association representing firms like Google, Meta, Snap, and X, filed the lawsuit.
- Utah's legislature aimed to enhance protections for minors amidst growing concerns over online risks.
However, Judge Shelby disagreed with the state's assertion that the 2024 act would withstand legal scrutiny, leading to this critical juncture for online privacy regulations.
This article was prepared using information from open sources in accordance with the principles of Ethical Policy. The editorial team is not responsible for absolute accuracy, as it relies on data from the sources referenced.