Instagram Chief Testifies on Social Media Addiction at Landmark Trial

Adam Mosseri disagrees that people can be clinically addicted to social media platforms.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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Adam Mosseri, the head of Meta's Instagram, testified during a landmark social media trial in Los Angeles that he disagrees with the idea that people can be clinically addicted to social media platforms. The question of addiction is a key pillar of the case, where plaintiffs seek to hold social media companies responsible for harms to children who use their platforms.

Why it matters

This trial could set a precedent for how thousands of similar lawsuits against social media companies are handled, as the plaintiffs argue that social media platforms are responsible for harms to children, including addiction and mental health issues.

The details

Mosseri said it's important to differentiate between clinical addiction and what he called 'problematic use.' He said he was not claiming to be a medical expert, but said someone close to him has experienced serious clinical addiction. Mosseri and the plaintiff's lawyer also engaged in a lengthy discussion about cosmetic filters on Instagram that changed people's appearance in a way that seemed to promote plastic surgery.

  • The trial is taking place in Los Angeles in 2026.

The players

Adam Mosseri

The head of Meta's Instagram.

Mark Lanier

The plaintiff's lawyer in the case.

Meta Platforms

The parent company of Instagram, which is a defendant in the case.

Google's YouTube

Another defendant in the case, along with Meta Platforms.

KGM

A 20-year-old plaintiff whose lawsuit could determine how thousands of similar lawsuits against social media companies would play out.

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What they’re saying

“We are trying to be as safe as possible but also censor as little as possible.”

— Adam Mosseri, Head of Instagram

“Often people try to frame things as you either prioritize safety or you prioritize revenue. It's really hard to imagine any instance where prioritizing safety isn't good for revenue.”

— Adam Mosseri, Head of Instagram

What’s next

Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg is expected to take the stand next week.

The takeaway

This trial highlights the ongoing debate around social media addiction and the responsibility of tech companies to protect the mental health and wellbeing of young users, which could have far-reaching implications for the industry.