A day after Meta lost a similar child safety lawsuit in New Mexico, a Los Angeles jury on Wednesday handed the social media giant, along with Google, another defeat. Jurors sided with the plaintiff, known by her initials KGM or first name Kaley, in a case that alleged social media platforms played a significant role in causing great harm to the mental health of a young woman.
The decision means that Meta and Google will have to pay $3 million in damages, with Meta covering 70% of the costs. As the jury continues to deliberate, more damages may be awarded.
This landmark case in Los Angeles County Superior Court aimed to hold social media platforms accountable for harm caused by Instagram and YouTube in particular. Kaley, now 20, said this contributed to her anxiety, depression, body dysmorphia and other illnesses in her youth. Meta’s lawyers argued that other factors, such as Kaley’s destructive home life and her parents’ divorce, were more to blame for Kaley’s mental health issues.
But the evidence presented at trial swayed the jury toward the plaintiffs and demonstrated that Meta understands how addictive its platform can be, especially among teens, and is actively researching the issue and using the results to increase engagement with younger users.
Just days before this particular case went to trial, both TikTok and Snap, which were also sued, reached settlements with the plaintiffs.
This ruling, along with others like Tuesday’s ruling in New Mexico, could set a precedent that social media companies are liable for harm their platforms cause through lack of safety measures or algorithmic recommendations. It could open a new wave of lawsuits as other plaintiffs try to sue for damages.
Neither ruling is likely to be final. Both Google and Meta are expected to appeal, and Meta has already announced its intentions, with a spokesperson telling reporters that the company is contesting the results and weighing its options.
