Meta’s business can be boiled down to four words beginning with H: hook, hold, harvest, hide, according to prosecutors opening a landmark trial. The social media giant allegedly hooks users, holds them on platforms, harvests their data, and hides the truth. This model worked especially well for kids, prompting 29 states to sue the tech company. Attorneys allege addictive designs harm minors and violate federal child privacy laws. The blockbuster case opened Tuesday in San Jose, where an eight-jury panel heard opening statements and witness testimony.

If liable, Meta could face damages as high as $200 billion, threatening its core revenue streams. Plaintiffs also demand permanent product redesigns to protect youth. During the trial, jurors may hear from CEO Mark Zuckerberg and Instagram chief Adam Mosseri. Meta denies all allegations, calling the payout demands outlandish while citing safety tools and account suspensions. The proceedings will span six to eight weeks, led by attorneys from multiple states.

The jury’s role remains advisory, meaning presiding Judge James Donato will issue the final verdict. Meta already lost two prior trials this year, facing billions in penalties and structural reforms across thousands of similar lawsuits nationwide.