Meta Threatens to Pull Apps from New Mexico Over ‘Technologically Impractical’ Demands
Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, has warned it may remove its apps from New Mexico if forced to make changes it calls “technologically impractical.” The threat comes amid a legal battle over child safety and data privacy. In simple terms, Meta says the state is asking for technical changes that are either impossible or too risky to implement.
Why Is Meta Threatening to Leave New Mexico?
The conflict started when New Mexico’s attorney general sued Meta, claiming its apps harm children and violate privacy laws. Meta responded by saying some of the state’s demands would require rebuilding core parts of its platforms. According to Meta, these changes are not just expensive—they are technically unfeasible.
What Does ‘Technologically Impractical’ Mean?
Meta argues that certain requests, like scanning all private messages for harmful content or instantly verifying user ages, would break encryption and user privacy. For example:
- Scanning private messages would require breaking end-to-end encryption, which Meta says is a security risk.
- Age verification for every user would need government ID checks, which could alienate users and raise privacy concerns.
- Real-time moderation of all content would demand massive computing power and still miss harmful posts.
What Happens If Meta Pulls Its Apps?
If Meta follows through, New Mexico users would lose access to Facebook, Instagram, and possibly WhatsApp. This could affect millions of residents, businesses, and community groups. However, Meta has made similar threats before in other states and countries, often as a negotiation tactic.
How Does This Affect Users?
For now, nothing changes. Meta is still operating in New Mexico. But if the case escalates, users should:
- Backup their photos, videos, and contacts from Meta apps.
- Explore alternative platforms like Signal or Telegram for messaging.
- Follow local news for updates on the legal case.
What’s Next in This Legal Battle?
New Mexico’s attorney general wants Meta to implement stronger child safety features and transparency. Meta wants to avoid costly and impractical changes. The outcome could set a precedent for how social media companies handle state-level regulation. Experts say a compromise is likely, but both sides are digging in.
Meta’s threat to leave New Mexico highlights a growing tension between tech giants and state regulators. While the company claims the demands are impossible, critics say Meta is avoiding responsibility. For now, users should stay informed and be ready for possible changes. Whether Meta stays or goes, this case will shape the future of online safety and privacy.
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