Meta CEO Zuckerberg Testifies in Trial Over Instagram's Impact on Kids

The high-profile case alleges Instagram is deliberately addictive and harmful to young users.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg recently testified in a Los Angeles courtroom as part of a trial focused on allegations that Instagram is deliberately addictive and harmful to children. The lawsuit, which includes over 1,600 plaintiffs, claims that early exposure to social media led to addiction, depression, and suicidal thoughts. Zuckerberg defended Meta's practices, stating the company aims to build a 'sustainable community' rather than prioritize short-term engagement.

Why it matters

This trial represents a pivotal moment in the ongoing debate surrounding social media's impact on young people's mental health. The outcome could have significant implications for the legal accountability of tech giants and the future regulation of social media platforms.

The details

The core of the case centers around K.G.M., now 20, who alleges that early exposure to social media led to addiction, depression, and suicidal thoughts. This case is part of a larger consolidation of over 1,600 plaintiffs, including families and school districts, all claiming similar harms. Zuckerberg maintained that Meta does not intentionally seek to make Instagram addictive, stating the company aims to build a 'sustainable community.' However, attorneys presented evidence suggesting Zuckerberg was coached on how to appear 'authentic' in his public persona. Zuckerberg also acknowledged the difficulty of enforcing Instagram's policy prohibiting users under 13, stating 'a meaningful number of people' lie about their age to access the platform.

  • The trial is currently underway in a Los Angeles courtroom.

The players

Mark Zuckerberg

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

K.G.M.

A 20-year-old plaintiff who alleges that early exposure to social media led to addiction, depression, and suicidal thoughts.

Meta

The parent company of Facebook and Instagram, which is facing the trial over allegations that Instagram is deliberately addictive and harmful to children.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

What’s next

The trial is ongoing, and the judge will likely make a decision in the coming months that could have far-reaching implications for the social media industry.

The takeaway

This trial is a bellwether for potential future regulations and legal challenges facing the social media industry, as courts and lawmakers grapple with the complex issues surrounding the impact of social media on young people's mental health.