A Los Angeles jury has found Meta Platforms Inc. and YouTube liable in a landmark lawsuit examining the impact of social media on young users, awarding $6 million in combined punitive and compensatory damages to the plaintiffs.
The case, identified as JCCP 5255 and filed in 2023, was heard at the Spring Street Courthouse and centred on a now 20-year-old plaintiff, referred to as K.G.M., and her mother, Karen. The lawsuit argued that prolonged exposure to social media platforms from the age of 10 contributed to severe mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, dependency, and body dysmorphia.
Jury finds platforms aware of risks
In its ruling, the jury concluded that both companies were aware that certain design elements of their platforms posed risks to users, particularly minors, but failed to provide adequate warnings. The court also determined that users, especially young people, were unlikely to fully understand the potential harm associated with these features.
The plaintiffs’ legal team described the verdict as a turning point for the technology sector, arguing that social media companies had “profited from targeting children while concealing addictive and dangerous design features.”
Both Meta and YouTube have rejected the ruling and indicated plans to appeal. Meta stated it “respectfully disagrees” with the decision, while YouTube’s parent company, Google LLC, argued that the case mischaracterises YouTube as a social media platform rather than a streaming service.
Legal strategy shifts focus to platform design
A notable aspect of the case was the plaintiffs’ focus on platform design rather than user-generated content. This approach allowed them to bypass protections under Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act, which typically shields technology companies from liability for content posted by users.
Initially, TikTok and Snap Inc. were also named as defendants but reached settlements before the trial began.
Growing legal pressure on Big Tech
The ruling comes amid increasing legal scrutiny of social media platforms in the United States. In a separate case in New Mexico, Meta was recently ordered to pay $375 million over child safety violations, further intensifying pressure on major technology firms.
Legal analysts view the Los Angeles decision as a potential bellwether for thousands of similar lawsuits filed by individuals, school districts and state authorities. Many of these cases allege that social media platforms contribute to mental health challenges among young users.
Health experts have also raised concerns. American Psychological Association has warned that excessive social media use among teenagers can disrupt sleep and reduce physical activity. Meanwhile, former US Surgeon General Vivek H. Murthy has called for warning labels on social media platforms to highlight potential mental health risks.
What comes next
With appeals expected, the case is far from concluded. However, the verdict marks a significant moment in the ongoing debate over platform accountability, youth safety and the design of digital products.
If upheld, the ruling could reshape how social media companies approach user engagement features, particularly those that may contribute to addictive behaviour. It may also influence future regulation, as policymakers seek to balance innovation with the need to protect vulnerable users.
For now, the case underscores a growing global shift towards greater transparency and accountability for technology companies whose platforms play a central role in modern life.
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