We Went To The Trial That Could Force Meta to Change its Ways
Aug 6, 2026 · 51m
Summary
Question Everything examines New Mexico’s lawsuit against Meta, focusing on a judge’s decision regarding penalties and platform changes to protect minors. The episode details proposals like age verification and removing end-to-end encryption for teens, highlighting tensions between child safety and privacy. Expert testimony clashes with Meta’s defense, raising questions about regulatory overreach and the future of online interaction.
Topics discussed
Sponsor reads for TakeUltra, Laundry Sauce, and Quince
Introduction: New Mexico vs. Meta legal showdown
Trial context: Phase two and potential penalties
Proposed changes: Undercover accounts and authenticity
Testimony: Meta's defense on undercover law enforcement
The monitor proposal and jurisdictional questions
Age verification: The backbone of the state's case
Judge Biedscheid's role and Section 230 context
Cross-examination: NICIC director and child safety tools
Dr. Levine's testimony on age verification methods
Meta's current age assurance and accuracy rates
Meta's avoidance of press and legal strategy
Sponsor read for Z-Biotics pre-alcohol supplement
Expert letter against age verification and encryption debate
Dr. Levine's post-trial interview on privacy vs. safety
Monica Bickert's testimony on end-to-end encryption
Meta's removal of encryption and upcoming verdict
Judge's closing remarks and show credits
Sponsor read for The New Yorker Radio Hour
Listen ad-free on Castria