Evidence presented at the trial swayed the jury to the plaintiff's side, demonstrating that Meta understood how addictive its platforms could be among teens in particular and that it was actively researching the issue and using its findings to increase engagement among young users.
Jury finds Meta and Google negligent in landmark social media addiction trial Sarah Perez 10:50 AM PDT · March 25, 2026 One day after Meta lost a similar child safety lawsuit in New Mexico, a Los Angeles jury on Wednesday handed the social media giant — along with Google — another defeat .
In a case arguing that social media platforms played a major role in harming a young woman’s mental health, jurors have sided with the plaintiff, known by her initials, K.G.M., or her first name, Kaley.
The decision means Meta and Google will have to pay out $3 million in compensatory damages, with Meta bearing 70% of that cost.
More damages may also be awarded as the jury continues to deliberate.
The landmark case, taking place in Los Angeles County Superior Court, aimed to hold the social media platforms accountable for the harms caused by Instagram and YouTube specifically, which Kaley, who’s now 20 years old, said contributed to her anxiety, depression, body dysmorphia, and other conditions during her youth.