Numerous states in the USA have sued Meta for allegedly using Facebook and Instagram to serve harmful content and addictive features to children and teenagers.
The lawsuit alleges that Meta is actively working to maximize the time young people spend on social media platforms.
The lawsuits claim that meta is well aware that the adolescent brain is particularly vulnerable to the allure of seeking approval through likes and comments on their content.
Furthermore, the lawsuit claims that Meta has publicly denied any harmful effects caused by its social media platforms.
This lawsuit is part of a broader effort, with nine other states anticipated to file similar legal actions on Tuesday, bringing the total number of states involved in these lawsuits to 42.
The legal action aims to secure various remedies including substantial civil penalties.
It represents the latest development in the ongoing scrutiny of social media companies, which have faced increasing criticism in recent years.
Social media giants are having their days in court due to their extensive influence and a perceived lack of sufficient oversight.
Public concern regarding the impact of social media on children’s mental health reached its zenith in 2021.
During that year, a former employee turned whistleblower, disclosed internal documents revealing damning evidence on social media use.
The whistleblower shared that Instagram exacerbated body image issues among some teenage girls, and that Meta was aware of this.
These revelations, which are cited in the lawsuit, led to a congressional hearing on the influence of social media on young individuals.
Meta and other social media companies are already confronting numerous lawsuits on behalf of children.
Meta responded to the lawsuit with a statement asserting its commitment to creating a safe online environment for teenagers.
A spokesperson expressed disappointment that, instead of collaborating with the industry to establish clear, age-appropriate standards for the various apps used by teens, the attorneys general had chosen the path of legal action.
