Jurors find Meta and Google negligent in landmark social media addiction trial

After one day Meta lost a similar lawsuit involving child safety In New Mexico, a Los Angeles jury on Wednesday handed the social media giant — along with Google — Another defeat. In a case alleging that social media platforms played a major role in harming a young woman’s mental health, jurors sided with the plaintiff, known by her initials, KGM, or her first name, Callie.

The decision means that Meta and Google will have to pay $3 million in damages, with Meta bearing 70% of that cost. More damages could also be awarded as the jury continues to deliberate.

The landmark case, which is being conducted in Los Angeles County Superior Court, aims to hold social media platforms liable for the harms caused by Instagram and YouTube specifically, which Kaley, now 20, said contributed to her anxiety, depression, body dysmorphia, and other conditions during her youth. Meta’s lawyers tried to argue that other factors, such as Kelly’s troubled home life and her parents’ divorce, were largely to blame for her mental health struggles, not her apps.

But the evidence presented at trial swayed the jury to the plaintiff’s side, showing that Meta understood the extent of addiction to its platforms among teens in particular, and that it was actively Search The case and benefit from its results Increase participation Among young users.

And in the days before this particular case went to trial, both Tik Tok and popwhich was also sued, settled with the plaintiff.

Judgment – along with others, e.g Tuesday’s ruling in New Mexico – It may set a precedent that social media companies are liable for harm caused by their platforms, whether through their lack of safety measures or their algorithmic recommendations. That could open the door to a new wave of lawsuits as other plaintiffs also try to sue for damages.

It is unlikely that either ruling will be the final word. Both Google and Meta are expected to appeal, and Meta has already signaled its intentions, with a spokesperson telling reporters that the company disputes the outcome and is considering its options.