> using NDAs as a weapon like this.

This is standard in companies. I've seen companies give a pittance in exchange for a binding NDA and the person took it because they needed to pay rent that month. Meta is evil but in this case so is almost every other company and especially tech companies. Also, giving it back doesn't undo the contract, the deal was done.

Some companies are more evil than others.

Some will lie repeatedly to even avoid paying out a settlement.

In America you have no rights, your lucky if you get paid on time. Even then the actual process to get your back owed wages usually isn't worth the effort.

I worked for a clown once who waited 30 days to tell me he only pays every 60 days.

A friend of mine wasted a full week training, and the employer decided they didn't need him and didn't pay for the training.

If you DARE try and go the legal route you'll find you can basically beg for a settlement, but your employer can just say no.

Going to court isn't going to be worth it since the system is heavily stacked against you.

Yes, NDAs are very common, but there are more and less ethical ways to use them.

A judge can decide to invalidate the contract entirely, which is what I'm suggesting would be the correct remedy in this case.