The European Commission has raised concerns about Meta’s handling of mental health risks linked to the design and functionality of Facebook and Instagram. The Commission claims that certain features on these platforms, like autoplay videos, infinite scrolling, reels, and stories, contribute to excessive and compulsive usage among users.
These features, according to regulators, may encourage unhealthy habits by keeping users engaged for longer periods, raising particular concerns about their impact on children and teenagers. The Commission has emphasized the need for Meta to address issues such as late-night usage, which could have detrimental effects on the younger demographic’s well-being.
This scrutiny is part of a broader investigation under the European Union’s Digital Services Act (DSA), which imposes obligations on online platforms to mitigate risks associated with user safety and harmful online practices. The EU is pushing for changes in the design of Facebook and Instagram, suggesting that autoplay and infinite scrolling should be limited by default. They also advocate for screen break reminders and adjustments to recommendation algorithms to curb compulsive engagement.
Meta, however, disputes these preliminary findings, defending its efforts to protect younger users. The company points to measures it has implemented, such as Teen Accounts, parental controls, screen-time limits, and restrictions on nighttime access, as evidence of its commitment to user safety.
Should the European Commission uphold its findings after concluding the investigation, Meta could face significant financial penalties, potentially amounting to 6% of its global annual revenue, for breaching the Digital Services Act.