Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has secured a $1.4 billion settlement from Meta, the parent company of Facebook, over allegations that it illegally collected users’ facial and biometric data without proper disclosure. Paxton claimed that Meta’s facial recognition software, which was implemented in 2011, automatically turned on without explaining its functionality, violating state laws governing the use of biometric data and deceptive trade practices. Meta did not admit wrongdoing but agreed to the settlement, which will be paid out over five years. The settlement is the largest ever obtained by a single state against a business. Paxton emphasized the importance of holding technology companies accountable for privacy violations and stated that any misuse of Texans’ sensitive data will face legal consequences. Meta expressed satisfaction with resolving the matter and indicated interest in expanding business investments in Texas, potentially including data centers. Paxton, known for his conservative views and criticism of big tech companies, has been linked to possible positions in a future U.S. administration. This legal victory comes as he faces a federal investigation and continued scrutiny for prior impeachment charges related to abuse of power.
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