Meta fires around 20 employees for leaking confidential company information
What's the story
Meta, the tech giant led by Mark Zuckerberg, has fired around 20 employees for leaking confidential company information.
The Verge reported the development, citing a statement from Meta spokesperson Dave Arnold.
"We recently conducted an investigation that resulted in roughly 20 employees being terminated for sharing confidential information outside the company," Arnold said.
He also hinted at possible future dismissals for similar violations.
Policy enforcement
Policy against internal information leaks
Arnold stressed on Meta's strict policy against leaking internal information.
"We tell employees when they join the company, and we offer periodic reminders, that it is against our policies to leak internal information, no matter the intent," he said.
The move comes as part of Meta's larger efforts to prevent unauthorized disclosure of its operational changes and strategies.
Strategic shifts
Internal changes and external relations
Recently, Meta has made some major policy changes, such as discontinuing company-wide DEI programs and ceasing content moderation on its social media platforms.
Some see these changes as an attempt to get in line with the new administration under Donald Trump.
The company also settled a lawsuit filed by Trump for $25 million after suspending his accounts post the Capitol attack on January 6, 2021.
CEO's concern
Zuckerberg's frustration over internal leaks
Zuckerberg has been disappointed with internal Meta discussions leaking. In a meeting, he reportedly said, "We try to be really open, and then everything I say leaks."
Ironically, this comment also leaked and was published by 404 Media.
This incident highlights the difficulties Meta has been facing in keeping things confidential within the company.
Workforce reduction
Meta's recent layoffs and future plans
Earlier this month, Meta laid off over 3,000 employees or nearly 5% of its workforce in a move targeting "low-performers."
The decision is part of the company's larger strategy to streamline operations.
Despite the layoffs, Meta remains committed to advancing its technological capabilities.
Zuckerberg has pledged a $65 billion investment in AI with an ambition for Meta AI to become the market's leading AI assistant.