tech

January 28, 2026

Social media companies face first trial over addiction to their platforms

Multiple social media platforms face a first-of-its-kind trial in a Los Angeles court this week, facing accusations that their platforms are designed to be harmfully addictive.

Social media companies face first trial over addiction to their platforms

TL;DR

  • Meta (Instagram, Facebook) and YouTube are facing a trial in Los Angeles.
  • The lawsuit accuses the companies of designing their platforms to be addictively harmful.
  • A 19-year-old plaintiff, K.G.M., claims addiction led to depression and suicidal thoughts.
  • Snap and TikTok settled undisclosed amounts before the trial.
  • The case draws comparisons to 1990s lawsuits against tobacco companies.
  • Plaintiffs argue features like infinite scroll and autoplay are designed for addiction.
  • Companies argue Section 230 shields them from liability.
  • This trial is seen as a potential indicator for future social media addiction lawsuits.

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