Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg offered an emotional public apology to families on Wednesday as US senators excoriated tech executives over the dangers children face on social platforms.At a dramatic Congressional hearing, Zuckerberg and peers from TikTok, YouTube, and Snapchat faced blistering criticism for failing to curb threats like sexual predators, teen depression, and suicides.“You have blood on your hands. You have a product thats killing people,” a seething Senator Lindsey Graham told the assembled Big Tech leaders.Zuckerberg vows to evolve defensesIn his opening remarks, Zuckerberg acknowledged shortcomings in protecting young users but said Meta continually evolves its safeguards.He also said that they are working hard for the safety of the young people but its been challenging. He also added that over time criminals also evolve their tactics making it hard to keep the youngsters out of danger.Lawmakers dismiss Zuckerbergs claimsZuckerberg also argued research suggests social media on balance does not damage teenage mental health - a claim lawmakers flatly dismissed.Retorting back to Zuckerbergs claim Senator Dick Durbin said “I dont think it makes any sense,” “There isnt a parent in this room whos had a child...(who) hasnt changed right in front of (their) eyes because of an emotional experience on social media, he added.Senator confronts Zuckerberg, CEO apologizesAt one point, Senator Josh Hawley invited parents of children allegedly harmed by social platforms to stand while addressing Zuckerberg.“Im sorry for everything you have all been through,” said a humbled Zuckerberg turning to face them. No one should go through the things that your families have suffered.BREAKING: Zuckerberg stands up, turns to survivors and parents who lost kids to social media, apologizes to them for harms caused by Meta. pic.twitter.com/NhHrU0mFHH— Senate Judiciary Committee (@JudiciaryDems) January 31, 2024Senators demand answers amid crisisChairing the hearing into the Online Child Sexual Exploitation Crisis,” Senator Dick Durbin admonished claims that social media doesnt radically change kids behavior.“There isnt a parent in this room whos had a child...(who) hasnt changed right in front of (their) eyes due to intense online experiences, he said.Meta, TikTok Announce New Youth Protections Ahead of the session, Meta revealed new restrictions blocking messages to teen users from strangers. TikTok also tightened policies around young people viewing harmful content.But senators suggested such incremental measures are woefully insufficient given tragic real-world consequences that watchdog groups directly tie to Meta, TikTok, and other platforms.
