Jury finds Meta, YouTube liable for social media addiction

A Los Angeles jury has found Meta and YouTube negligent in a landmark trial concerning social media's impact on mental health. The plaintiff, identified as K.G.M., was awarded $3 million in compensatory damages, with Meta responsible for 70% of the cost. The case argued that the platforms' addictive designs contributed to her anxiety and depression. Evidence suggested Meta understood and researched the addictive nature of its platforms, particularly among teens, to boost engagement. This verdict, following settlements from TikTok and Snap, could set a precedent for holding social media companies accountable for user harm, potentially leading to more lawsuits.