Meta Executives Proceeded with Messenger Encryption Despite Child Safety Warnings, Court Filings Show

Internal Meta documents revealed in a New Mexico court case show executives proceeded with plans to encrypt Facebook Messenger and Instagram messages despite warnings that it would hinder detection of child exploitation. Monika Bickert, Meta's head of content policy, described the decision as "so irresponsible." The lawsuit alleges this encryption allowed predators easier access to minors, leading to abuse and trafficking. Meta faces multiple lawsuits and regulatory scrutiny over youth safety, with a trial underway addressing these concerns.