Texas AG Wins $1.4 Billion Privacy Victory Against Meta
Submitted by MAGA
Posted 91 days ago
Title: Texas Attorney General Secures Historic $1.4 Billion Settlement Against Meta for Privacy Violations
In a major victory for privacy advocates, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has announced a monumental $1.4 billion settlement with Meta, the parent company of Facebook.
Paxton's historic agreement marks the largest settlement ever achieved through state legal action concerning privacy violations, sending a clear message to big tech companies about accountability.
The agreement resolves allegations that Meta unlawfully collected and exploited biometric data from millions of Texans without obtaining proper consent.
This settlement comes after Paxton’s lawsuit, filed in February 2022, exposed Meta's misleading practices, particularly its use of facial recognition technology without user consent through its “Tag Suggestions” feature.
For over a decade, Meta’s technology processed images of countless Texans, gathering sensitive data discreetly, violating Texas’ Capture or Use of Biometric Identifier Act.
During the announcement, Paxton emphasized the importance of protecting Texans’ privacy rights, stating, "This historic settlement demonstrates our commitment to standing up to the world’s biggest technology companies."
He continued, “Any abuse of Texans’ sensitive data will be met with the full force of the law.”
This watershed moment not only underscores Paxton's dedication to consumers but also reflects a broader trend of states stepping up to challenge the dominance of major technology firms.
Furthermore, Paxton, known for his vigorous stance against various forms of digital infringement, recently filed legal challenges against the Biden administration.
He protested a federal regulation allowing minors to access contraception without parental consent, further showing his commitment to safeguarding the rights and welfare of families in Texas.
The $1.4 billion settlement is a triumph for Texas and a significant step toward restoring trust in how personal data is handled, showcasing the effectiveness of state-led initiatives in combating government overreach by tech giants.
As the nation grapples with the complexities of digital privacy, Paxton's aggressive approach serves as a model, advocating for accountability and transparent practices in the ever-evolving technology landscape.