American multinational technology conglomerate. Operates Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and Threads.
Facebook allowed Cambridge Analytica to harvest personal data from 87 million users without explicit consent, which was used for political targeting. Meta paid a $5 billion FTC fine — the largest ever at the time.
Internal Facebook research showed Instagram is harmful to teenage girls' body image and mental health. Meta suppressed findings and continued growth-maximising design. 41 US states launched investigations.
As the world's largest index fund manager, Vanguard's passive ownership model means it never votes against management on executive pay, environmental resolutions, or labour practices.