Meta CEO Zuckerberg denies Instagram targets kids in trial

Testimony comes amid lawsuit over social media addiction among youth

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Meta Platforms CEO Mark Zuckerberg testified on Wednesday that the company does not allow children under 13 on its Facebook and Instagram platforms, despite internal documents showing the company has sought to attract younger users.

Why it matters

This trial is a landmark case examining the impact of social media platforms like Instagram on youth mental health and addiction, with allegations that Meta has knowingly targeted underage users despite policies prohibiting it.

The details

During the trial, Zuckerberg denied that Meta allows kids under 13 on its platforms, despite internal documents showing the company has sought to attract younger users. Zuckerberg claimed the company enforces age restrictions, though critics argue Meta has not done enough to prevent underage use.

  • The trial took place on Wednesday, February 19, 2026.

The players

Mark Zuckerberg

CEO of Meta Platforms, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“If we want to win big with teens, we must bring them in as tweens.”

— Mark Zuckerberg, CEO, Meta Platforms (Internal Meta document)

What’s next

The trial is ongoing, and a verdict is expected in the coming weeks or months.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing debate over social media's impact on youth mental health and the responsibility of tech companies to protect underage users, even as they seek to grow their user base.