Jury selection begins in landmark US lawsuits
The world’s largest social media companies are facing their first courtroom tests over allegations that their platforms have harmed children and teenagers.
Jury selection began Tuesday in Los Angeles in the opening case of a wave of lawsuits being heard in both state and federal courts. More than 1,600 plaintiffs, including families and school districts, accuse the companies behind Instagram, YouTube, TikTok and Snapchat of knowingly designing addictive products that damage young users’ mental health.
Claims focus on platform design
The lawsuits argue that the platforms intentionally use features such as endless scrolling, notifications and algorithmic recommendations to maximize engagement among minors, despite internal research showing potential harm.
According to the consolidated complaint, the companies prioritized growth and profits while failing to adequately protect children.
Early settlements but broader trials continue
Ahead of the first trial, TikTok and Snap reached settlements in a California state case involving a plaintiff identified as K.G.M., who was a minor at the time of the alleged harm. The settlement terms were not disclosed.
Both companies remain defendants in hundreds of similar lawsuits expected to proceed this year.
Executives expected to testify
The K.G.M. case is viewed as a bellwether that could influence the outcome of many other claims. Meta chief executive Mark Zuckerberg is expected to testify in February, and Instagram head Adam Mosseri may also appear. Snap chief executive Evan Spiegel will not testify following the settlement.
If juries rule in favor of plaintiffs, the companies could face significant financial damages and be required to change the design of their platforms.
Internal documents raise scrutiny
Recent reports based on unsealed court documents have highlighted internal emails and presentations that critics say show efforts to increase youth engagement despite known risks.
Legal observers note that these cases mark a major shift, as plaintiffs have succeeded in moving forward despite longstanding protections under Section 230, which has historically shielded platforms from liability.
Companies deny wrongdoing
The companies involved have rejected the allegations, pointing to safety tools, parental controls and policy changes introduced in recent years.
They argue that the claims misrepresent their products and that they remain committed to supporting young users.
