Recently, Facebook has been in the news due to various controversies surrounding its handling of misinformation, government takedown requests, and user safety. Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg stated that the company is prepared to resist government demands for content removal, highlighting ongoing tensions between social media platforms and regulatory bodies. Additionally, reports have emerged about Russia's use of AI-generated misinformation on social media to influence foreign politics, further complicating Facebook's role in the information landscape. The platform is also facing scrutiny over user-generated content, with incidents of hate speech and violent rhetoric prompting discussions about accountability and moderation.
Facebook, launched in 2004 by Mark Zuckerberg and his Harvard College peers, is a leading social media and networking service owned by Meta Platforms. Initially designed for college students, it rapidly expanded to the general public, becoming one of the largest social media platforms globally. Facebook allows users to create profiles, share content, and connect with others, significantly influencing how people communicate and consume information. Over the years, it has faced numerous challenges, including privacy concerns, regulatory scrutiny, and the spread of misinformation, shaping its evolution and policies in the digital age.