Meta resolves social media addiction claims from two teen plaintiffs

The settlements follow similar resolutions reached recently by TikTok and YouTube with the same plaintiffs, S.J. and K.D.B. “We remain committed to improving safety for kids on social media apps and holding tech companies accountable, and we are pleased to have brought this matter to a just resolution on behalf of our client,” stated Emily Jeffcott, trial counsel for K.D.B.

Snap Inc. is now the sole defendant in the trial, which commenced this week in Los Angeles with jury selection. Opening arguments are scheduled for November 4.

The lawsuit, filed by K.D.B. and S.J., accuses Snap of designing features like Snapstreaks, Snapscores, and filters intended to maximize user engagement, potentially leading to mental and physical health problems including self-harm.

This case is part of a consolidated group of four bellwether trials involving over 1,600 plaintiffs, encompassing more than 350 families and 250 school districts. The plaintiffs collectively accuse social media companies of knowingly creating addictive products detrimental to young users’ mental well-being.

Historically, Section 230 of the Communications Act of 1934 has provided broad immunity to internet companies regarding user-generated content. Meta has consistently denied allegations that its platforms are intentionally harmful or addictive.

In March, a Los Angeles jury found Meta and Google’s YouTube negligent in their social media platform design, awarding $3 million in damages to plaintiff K.G.M. Meta was found 70% responsible, while YouTube was found 30% responsible.

In August, Meta agreed to a $18 billion settlement with California and other states in a broader social media addiction lawsuit. The company maintains it denies the allegations and any liability.

A Meta spokesperson stated the company will continue to defend itself in court and highlighted ongoing efforts to enhance teen safety features, including time limits and restricted access during certain hours.