Meta, Google Found Liable in Social Media Addiction Case, Ordered to Pay Damages

TECH

Overview

Meta and Google were found liable by a US jury for causing a young woman's mental health crisis through social media addiction, leading to awarded damages. The ruling opens tech giants to risks from thousands of similar lawsuits over platform design.

First-of-its-Kind Verdict

In Los Angeles, a jury found Meta Platforms and Alphabet's Google negligent in a first-of-its-kind trial. Jurors decided if the companies failed to warn that their platforms could be dangerous for minors due to addictive design.

Jury Awards Millions in Damages

Jurors ordered Meta to pay at least $2.1 million and Google at least $900,000 in damages. Arguments will continue on punitive damages, which could significantly increase the financial penalties.

Plaintiff Blames Platforms for Mental Health Crisis

The lawsuit was filed by Kaley G.M., who started using YouTube at age six and Instagram at nine. She blamed her addiction to these social media platforms for severe harms, including anxiety, depression, and body dysmorphia.

Companies React to Verdict, Future Lawsuits Loom

Meta Platforms stated it respectfully disagreed with the verdict and is reviewing its legal options. Alphabet's Google had not yet responded to comment requests. This verdict could affect thousands of other pending lawsuits.

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