A significant legal battle is now underway. Arguments began on February 9, 2026. This trial is in Los Angeles Superior Court. It targets social media giants Meta and Google. The core accusation involves child addiction. Plaintiffs claim these platforms deliberately addict children. They allege severe mental health harms. This news shines a spotlight on Big Tech’s practices.
Key Players and Allegations
The lawsuit centers on a young woman. She is identified by the initials K.G.M. She claims years of social media use caused harm. These harms include depression and anxiety. She also alleges body dysmorphia and suicidal thoughts. The case argues platforms used addictive designs. Features like infinite scroll and autoplay are cited. Algorithms are also under scrutiny. These designs allegedly maximize user engagement. They aim to boost advertising revenue. This strategy prioritizes profit over child safety.
Settlements and Remaining Defendants
This trial is a landmark event. It is the first of its kind. It could set a legal precedent. TikTok and Snap were also named. However, both companies settled. They reached undisclosed agreements. This occurred before the trial began. Meta, owner of Instagram, and Google, owner of YouTube, remain defendants. They will now face the jury. The Social Media Victims Law Center is involved. It represents thousands of plaintiffs. Many parents and school districts have filed similar suits.
Historical Comparisons and Legal Battles
Attorneys draw parallels to Big Tobacco litigation. Companies faced similar lawsuits. They were accused of selling addictive products. They allegedly hid the harms for decades. The current cases also involve internal documents. Some show employees discussing addictive features. One internal message called Instagram a “drug.” Another called employees “pushers.”
Legal Defense and Section 230
Tech companies assert their platforms are shielded. They cite Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act. This law protects them from liability for user-generated content. However, this trial focuses on product design. Plaintiffs argue this design itself caused harm. Judge Carolyn Kuhl allowed claims like failure-to-warn and negligence to proceed. She rejected arguments that Section 230 bars these claims. The court found evidence that platform features were substantial factors in harm. This is a critical legal distinction.
Potential Impact and Future News
Executives like Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg may testify. The trial’s outcome could significantly impact tech companies. It might lead to new regulations. It could also influence future lawsuits. This Los Angeles news could reshape the social media landscape. The proceedings are expected to last several weeks. They will reveal more internal company practices. The goal is to seek accountability. This landmark trial is in the spotlight. It addresses profound questions about technology’s role. It highlights the urgent need for child well-being. This news from Los Angeles is closely watched.
