Meta and YouTube Found Liable in Social Media Addiction Trial

A Los Angeles jury has found Meta (parent company of Instagram) and YouTube liable for creating products that led to harmful and addictive behavior in young users. The verdict, reached on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, could set a legal precedent for similar allegations against social media companies. The jury awarded $3 million in compensatory damages and $3 million in punitive damages to the plaintiff, Kaley G.M. (KGM), a 20-year-old woman who alleged that using the platforms from a young age contributed to her mental health problems.

Details of the Lawsuit and Verdict

Kaley G.M. Alleged that her use of YouTube and Instagram led to addictive behavior and contributed to mental health issues including depression, body dysmorphia, and suicidal thoughts. Jurors determined that both Meta and YouTube were negligent in the design and operation of their platforms, and that they were aware of the potential adverse effects on minors but failed to adequately warn users.

Meta was assigned 70% of the responsibility, and YouTube 30%. The jury also found that the companies acted with “malice, oppression or fraud,” justifying the $3 million in punitive damages, with Meta responsible for $2.1 million and YouTube for $900,000.

Lengthy Deliberations and Previous Settlements

The jury deliberated for over 40 hours across nine days before reaching a consensus. The trial featured testimony from Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg and Instagram head Adam Mosseri, who defended their products. TikTok and Snap each settled before the trial began.

Companies Plan to Appeal

Meta has stated that it respectfully disagrees with the verdict and plans to appeal. A Meta spokesperson emphasized the complexity of teen mental health and argued it cannot be linked to a single app [CBS News].

Potential Implications

This landmark decision could reshape how tech companies are held accountable for harm to children resulting from their products. It may also encourage further lawsuits against social media platforms alleging similar harms [Los Angeles Times]. The case has drawn comparisons to the tobacco industry lawsuits of the 1990s [CBS News].

Key Takeaways

• Meta and YouTube were found liable for the addictive nature of their platforms and the resulting harm to a young user.
• The jury awarded $6 million in damages to the plaintiff, Kaley G.M.
• Meta will cover 70% of the damages, and YouTube 30%.
• Both companies plan to appeal the verdict.
• The case could set a precedent for future lawsuits against social media companies.