US juryholds Meta and YouTube liable for social media addiction

A US jury found Meta and YouTube liable for failing to warn users about their platforms' addictive nature, awarding $3 million to a 20-year-old plaintiff. The verdict follows claims that features like auto-scrolling caused anxiety, depression, and self-harm. Meta's share is 70% ($2.1 million), YouTube 30% ($900,000). Both companies face more lawsuits and punitive damages. Plaintiff K.G.M. began using Instagram at 9 and YouTube at 6, arguing platforms were designed to addict young users. Meta CEO Zuckerberg and YouTube VP Goodrow testified. The LA ruling follows a similar $375 million verdict in New Mexico.

SOURCE: https://dailypost.ng/2026/03/25/meta-youtube-found-liable-in-us-social-media-addiction-trial/