Meta and Google Found Liable for $3 Million in Landmark Social Media Addiction Trial

Mar 24, 2026

A Los Angeles jury found Alphabet's Google and Meta liable for $3 million in damages in a landmark social media addiction lawsuit. The verdict, following a five-week trial, could influence thousands of similar cases pending against social media platforms.

Landmark jury verdict against Meta and Google

▪A Los Angeles jury found Alphabet's Google and Meta liable for US$3 million in damages on Wednesday in a landmark social media addiction lawsuit.
▪The Los Angeles social media addiction case involves a 20-year-old woman who said she became addicted to the apps at a young age.

Broader legal implications and pending cases

▪The Los Angeles social media addiction lawsuit outcome could influence thousands of similar cases against Meta and Google brought by parents, attorneys general and school districts.

Youth social media usage and addiction concerns

▪At least half of American teenagers use YouTube or Instagram daily, according to the Pew Research Centre.

Perspective of Meta and Google

▪Meta and Google plan to appeal the $3 million damages verdict in the Los Angeles social media addiction lawsuit.
▪Meta and Google argue their platforms include parental controls and safety features to protect young users.

Perspective of Parents and advocacy groups

▪Parents bringing social media addiction lawsuits argue that platforms deliberately design features to maximize youth engagement and screen time.
▪The Los Angeles jury verdict against Meta and Google represents a breakthrough for families seeking accountability from social media companies.

Perspective of Legal experts and plaintiffs' attorneys

▪The Los Angeles social media addiction verdict could establish legal precedent for holding tech platforms liable for youth mental health harms.
▪Attorneys representing social media addiction plaintiffs view the $3 million verdict as a signal that juries are willing to find tech companies responsible for design choices.