Meta's Legal Battle: FTC's Antitrust Challenge

Meta Platforms, formerly known as Facebook, is set to face trial following a ruling obliging them to respond to the FTC's antitrust lawsuit. The FTC claims that Meta's acquisitions of Instagram and WhatsApp were aimed at stifling competition. The case highlights ongoing efforts to regulate Big Tech's influence.

Meta Platforms, the parent company of Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, is facing a significant legal challenge as the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) pushes forward with its lawsuit, seeking to dismantle the tech giant's hold on the social media market.

Judge James Boasberg ruled against Meta's attempt to dismiss the case, which accuses the company of illegally maintaining a social network monopoly by acquiring Instagram in 2012 and WhatsApp in 2014 to suppress competition. However, he dismissed claims regarding Meta's restriction of third-party developers, allowing the core argument to proceed to trial.

The FTC's pursuit of Meta forms part of a broader antitrust campaign targeting Big Tech, alongside ongoing lawsuits against Amazon, Apple, and Google. Meta remains confident, arguing that its acquisitions have benefitted consumers. The trial date is yet to be set, keeping the tech world on edge.

(With inputs from agencies.)