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Meta CEO Testifies in Landmark Social Media Addiction Lawsuit
Zuckerberg faces questions over Instagram's impact on young users' mental health
Published on Feb. 25, 2026
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Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg appeared in a Los Angeles courtroom to testify in a closely watched case that could reshape how courts view social media companies' responsibility for young users' well-being. The trial is the first of more than 1,500 related lawsuits nationwide to reach a jury, with the lead plaintiff, a 20-year-old woman, claiming she became addicted to platforms like Facebook, Instagram and YouTube as a child, leading to anxiety, depression and body image struggles.
Why it matters
This case could set a precedent for how social media companies are held accountable for the potential harms their platforms pose to young users, particularly around issues of addiction and mental health. It comes amid growing concerns about the impact of social media on youth well-being and ongoing debates over regulation of the tech industry.
The details
Zuckerberg was questioned about Instagram's users under 13 and the company's strategies to increase engagement. The plaintiff's attorney argued that features like recommendation algorithms and endless scrolling fueled compulsive use that contributed to the plaintiff's mental health issues. Zuckerberg acknowledged the challenge of enforcing the age restriction, stating that 'a meaningful number of people' lie about their age to use the service. He also addressed Instagram's use of beauty filters, saying the platform reinstated them to support freedom of expression.
- The trial is unfolding in Los Angeles County Superior Court.
- The lead plaintiff, identified as K.G.M. or 'Kaley', began using platforms like Facebook, Instagram and YouTube as a child.
The players
Mark Zuckerberg
The CEO of Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram.
K.G.M. (Kaley)
A 20-year-old woman who is the lead plaintiff in the lawsuit, claiming she became addicted to social media platforms as a child.
Mark Lanier
The attorney representing the plaintiff, K.G.M.
Adam Mosseri
The head of Instagram, who testified last week in the trial.
The parent company of YouTube, which is also a defendant in the case.
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)
“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”
— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)
What’s next
The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.
The takeaway
This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.
