Meta and YouTube Found Negligent in Landmark Social Media Addiction Trial
A Los Angeles jury determined on Wednesday that Meta and Google’s YouTube were negligent and failed to warn users of the dangers associated with using their platforms, in a case that could have significant repercussions for the social media and broader technology industries. The verdict marks what experts are characterizing as a potential “Big Tobacco” moment for social media companies.
Case Background and Plaintiff’s Claims
The personal injury trial, which began in late January in Los Angeles Superior Court, centered on the claims of K.G.M., identified as Kaley, who alleged that addiction to apps like Instagram and YouTube exacerbated her depression and suicidal thoughts. Jurors found that the companies’ negligence was a “substantial factor” in causing mental health-related harms to Kaley. Deliberations spanned nine days, totaling nearly 44 hours.
Damages Assessed
The jury assessed total compensatory damages at $3 million, with Meta responsible for 70% ($2.1 million) and YouTube for the remaining 30% ($900,000). The next phase of the trial will focus on determining punitive damages. Meta stated it respectfully disagrees with the verdict and is evaluating its legal options.
Legal Arguments and Testimony
During the trial, attorneys for the plaintiff, Mark Lanier, presented internal documents from Meta and YouTube suggesting an internal understanding of the potentially addictive nature of their platforms. Lanier used analogies, such as a cupcake with minimal baking soda, to illustrate how even a little factor could be substantial in causing harm. He similarly presented an image of gazelles and lions, arguing that social media companies target vulnerable users.
Meta argued that Kaley faced significant challenges before using social media and that her struggles would have existed regardless. YouTube’s defense focused on arguing that it is not a social media platform and that its features are not inherently addictive, often comparing it to television.
Zuckerberg’s Testimony
Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg testified that preteens are barred from using his platforms but conceded that minors do break the rules. He also stated the company removes users found to be underage.
Settlements and Bellwether Trial Status
TikTok and Snap, initially named as defendants in the lawsuit, settled before the trial began. This case is considered a bellwether trial, meaning its outcome could influence the resolution of thousands of similar lawsuits against social media companies.
Jury Findings
The jury’s verdict forms included seven questions for each defendant regarding negligence in the design or operation of their platforms. While nine of the twelve jurors were required to agree on each count, the jury was not unanimous on all findings.
YouTube’s Defense and Features
Attorneys representing YouTube emphasized that Kaley did not initially include YouTube in her lawsuit and later attested under oath that she had no specific claims against the video platform. They also highlighted the company’s efforts to promote user wellbeing and the safety features available, such as YouTube Kids and safety modes, noting that Kaley and her family did not utilize these tools.
Source: CNBC