Meta Platforms, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, is facing a major federal trial in California over allegations that its social media platforms were designed in ways that encourage addictive use among children and teenagers.
The case, brought by attorneys general from 29 US states, began with opening arguments on August 18 in federal court in Oakland. The trial is expected to continue for around six to eight weeks and is being closely watched because of its potential implications for the way major social media platforms are designed and regulated.
States accuse Meta of designing addictive features
The states allege that Meta deliberately developed features on Facebook and Instagram that encourage young users to spend more time on the platforms while failing to adequately address risks to children’s wellbeing.
The lawsuit also alleges that Meta collected data from children under the age of 13 without appropriate parental consent, potentially violating federal and state laws. The states further argue that the company prioritised engagement and profits despite concerns about the effects of its platforms on young users.
California, Colorado, Kentucky and New Jersey are leading the case on behalf of the 29 states.
Zuckerberg and other executives expected to testify
Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg and Instagram head Adam Mosseri are among the prominent witnesses expected to testify during the proceedings. Former Meta employee and whistleblower Arturo Béjar is also expected to appear.
The court has selected an advisory jury whose findings will not be legally binding but are intended to assist US District Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers in reaching a decision.
Potential penalties could be enormous
The states are seeking substantial financial penalties as well as changes to Meta’s platform design. The legal action could potentially result in penalties reaching hundreds of billions of dollars, with Meta saying in court filings that the states’ claims could amount to as much as $1.4 trillion.
The states are also seeking measures that could require changes to features and systems affecting young users, including how the platforms recommend and display content.
Meta denies the allegations
Meta has rejected the allegations and argues that the states have not established that its platforms were deliberately designed to harm children.
The company has also disputed the scale of the financial claims and says it has introduced measures aimed at improving safety for teenagers.
The California case comes amid a broader wave of litigation against social media companies over alleged harms to young users. A New Mexico court recently ordered Meta to pay $567 million and make changes to how its platforms operate for young users, adding to the legal pressure facing the company.
A separate case involving Meta is also being heard in Tennessee, highlighting the growing legal scrutiny of social media platforms and their impact on children and teenagers.
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