Meta and Google Fund Kids Groups: A Deep Dive into a Complex Relationship
Meta and Google have been funding a network of US parent and child-safety organisations, using them as third-party endorsers when advocating for their products before regulators.
Key Takeaways:
- Eight-month investigation revealed a $6 million verdict against Meta in a child safety case, leading to the National PTA resigning its Meta sponsorship.
- Meta and Google have long supported organisations like the National PTA, Family Online Safety Institute (FOSI), ConnectSafely, and PROJECT ROCKIT in Australia.
- This funding is often undisclosed and presented as "independent expert" support in regulatory filings and testimony.
- The pattern emerges across various platforms: Instagram Teen Accounts, Horizon Worlds, Messenger Kids, etc.
- Meta’s sponsorship of the National PTA dates back to at least 2010, with significant financial contributions.
- ConnectSafely receives honoraria as a member of Meta’s Safety Advisory Council.
- The Family Online Safety Institute is a paid membership organisation funded by the platform companies on its board.
- After revelations from the Instagram teen mental health trial, the National PTA decided not to renew Meta funding.
Quoted Text:
The line between independent expert and corporate spokesperson is, on the evidence, a budget item.