Silicon Valley is in turmoil after the release of a powerful new book by Sarah Wynn-Williams, a former Facebook executive turned whistleblower. Her memoir, titled Careless People: A Cautionary Tale of Power, Greed, and Lost Idealism, reveals troubling details about Meta's corporate culture. The book, published on Tuesday, delivers a sharp and critical view of one of the world's most powerful tech companies.
Wynn-Williams, who worked at Facebook for six years, claims she was pushed out just before the company rebranded to Meta. She accuses CEO Mark Zuckerberg and other top executives of trying to silence her. Following her departure, she filed a whistleblower complaint with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), as first reported by The Washington Post.
In her book, Wynn-Williams alleges Meta weakened its content moderation policies to gain favor with the Chinese government. This raises serious concerns about Big Tech's growing influence over global politics and free speech.
Described by The Sunday Times as "shocking and darkly funny," the memoir also accuses Meta of turning a blind eye to major issues. Wynn-Williams points to the platform's role in spreading misinformation and fueling violence against Rohingya Muslims in Myanmar. She claims Meta prioritized profits over moral responsibility.
Published by Flatiron Books, Careless People is being sold at major outlets, including Amazon and Barnes & Noble. The book delivers serious allegations against Zuckerberg, former COO Sheryl Sandberg, and Vice President Joel Kaplan. Wynn-Williams describes a toxic environment inside Meta, alleging sexual harassment, double standards, and a pattern of unethical behavior.
Flatiron Books has called the memoir a bold exposé of a "rotten company culture." Wynn-Williams also alleges Meta sought to meet Chinese government demands to access the country's vast market. These claims are adding more fuel to the growing debate over Big Tech's power and accountability.
Meta has strongly denied the accusations. In a statement, the company called the book "a mix of outdated information and false claims." It says Wynn-Williams was fired eight years ago for "poor performance and toxic behavior." Meta also alleges her harassment claims were investigated at the time and found to be without merit.
The company accuses Wynn-Williams of working with anti-Facebook activists and claims the book is part of that ongoing effort. Meta further says it is taking legal action, citing a violation of a non-disparagement clause in her severance agreement. "Whistleblower protections do not cover disgruntled former employees trying to sell books," Meta said.
In response, Flatiron's parent company, Macmillan, defended its author. "We are appalled by Meta's attempts to silence our author," the publisher said, criticizing the use of severance clauses to block free expression.
The memoir has drawn massive attention, in part due to its secretive launch. The book was hidden under a vague title on Amazon until a week before its release, fueling curiosity in publishing circles.
As media outlets worldwide cover the story, the clash between Meta and Wynn-Williams continues. Legal battles and public debate over Meta's practices show no signs of fading anytime soon.
