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Teen Sues Meta, TikTok, YouTube Over Alleged Social Media Addiction
Landmark case tests platform liability for mental health impacts
Published on Feb. 18, 2026
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A 20-year-old woman named K.G.M. is suing major social media companies including Meta, Google, Snap, and TikTok, alleging their platforms were intentionally designed to foster addiction, contributing to her struggles with anxiety, body dysmorphia, and depression. The case is seen as a bellwether for similar lawsuits across the U.S. and could reshape how social media companies are held accountable for the mental health impacts of their products.
Why it matters
This trial is testing the legal boundaries of platform responsibility in the digital age, potentially reshaping how social media companies design and market their products. The outcome could have significant financial and regulatory implications for the tech industry, drawing parallels to past litigation against tobacco companies.
The details
K.G.M. began using social media at a young age, including YouTube, Instagram, Musical.ly, and Snapchat. She alleges features like infinite scrolling and algorithmic content recommendations led to her mental health issues. Her lawsuit claims the companies created 'traps' for young users, prioritizing engagement over well-being. Prior to the trial, Snapchat and TikTok reached confidential settlements, while Meta and Google are defending their platforms. A key legal question is whether Section 230 protects the companies from liability for harm caused by their design choices.
- K.G.M. began using YouTube at age 6, Instagram at 9, Musical.ly at 10, and Snapchat at 11.
- The trial is currently underway in Los Angeles.
The players
K.G.M.
A 20-year-old woman suing major social media companies for allegedly designing their platforms to be intentionally addictive, contributing to her mental health struggles.
Meta
The parent company of Instagram and Facebook, defending its platform against the lawsuit.
The parent company of YouTube, also defending its platform against the lawsuit.
Snap Inc.
The company behind Snapchat, which reached a confidential settlement with K.G.M. prior to the trial.
TikTok
The social media platform that also reached a confidential settlement with K.G.M. before the trial.
What they’re saying
“Social media platforms do not make users 'clinically addicted,' but can be habit-forming, similar to watching a television series.”
— Adam Mosseri, Instagram Chief (The New York Times)
What’s next
The outcome of this case could set a precedent for future litigation against social media companies, and further regulatory action and legal challenges are anticipated as policymakers and advocates grapple with the complex issues of addiction, mental health, and platform accountability.
The takeaway
This landmark case highlights the growing concerns around the potential mental health impacts of social media, particularly on young users. The trial's outcome could significantly reshape how social media companies are held responsible for the design and marketing of their products.
