A federal judge in California has ruled that Meta Platforms Inc. must face several claims in a lawsuit brought by 34 state attorneys general, accusing the company of contributing to a youth mental health crisis. The suit alleges that Meta knowingly fostered addiction to its Facebook and Instagram platforms among young users, despite evidence linking their use to depression and other mental health issues. US District Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers, who is overseeing hundreds of lawsuits involving major social media companies, allowed these claims to proceed while dismissing others under Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act, which shields internet platforms from certain liabilities.
The attorneys general argue that Meta failed to remove harmful features from its platforms and unlawfully collected data from children under 13. They also claim that Meta’s platforms promote body dysmorphia through appearance-altering filters and failed to warn users of addiction risks. While Meta has denied the allegations, stating it has developed tools to protect teens and families, the company’s stock dipped following the ruling. Meta is just one of several companies, including TikTok and YouTube, facing lawsuits for allegedly profiting from the addictive nature of their platforms.
The lawsuits highlight growing concerns about the role of social media in exacerbating mental health issues among young people. Public school districts have also filed lawsuits against these platforms, accusing them of creating a public nuisance. While some claims have been dismissed, the litigation against Meta and other tech companies is expected to continue, with plaintiffs’ lawyers hailing the judge’s decision as a significant step in holding these companies accountable for their business practices.
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