Tech companies like Meta and Google have been held accountable for social media addiction in a landmark trial that has been years in the making. A Los Angeles jury found liability for the tech giants, saying they deliberately designed their platforms with addictive features that harm young users’ well-being.
Critics of Big Tech say this verdict is long overdue, giving hope to parents and child safety experts who have pushed for accountability. The trial centered on claims that the tech giants’ platforms are addicting young people and damaging their mental health.
Both Meta and Google dispute these claims, saying they invested in safety tools and disagree with the verdict. However, the jury’s finding has sparked a wave of support from lawmakers and advocacy groups, who see it as a “Big Tobacco moment” for the tech industry.
The outcome is seen as a step towards truth, justice, and accountability, with many experts predicting thousands more cases will follow. The Kids Online Safety Act, which requires tech platforms to provide multiple safeguards for minors, is now gaining momentum, with some lawmakers calling for it to be passed into law.
Source: https://edition.cnn.com/2026/03/25/media/meta-google-social-media-verdict-advocates