Legal action challenges Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act, which has protected platforms against liability for content posted on them
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A landmark lawsuit has been launched against Internet giants Meta and Google in Los Angeles. The lawsuit focuses on the alleged impact of their social media platforms Instagram and YouTube on the mental health of young users.
During the first hearing, plaintiff’s lawyer Mark Lanier cited that Meta and Google deliberately designed their platforms to be addictive. These allegedly put profits above the well-being of users. He presented evidence showing that these companies were aware of the addictive nature of their products and used algorithms to keep users engaged for long periods of time.
Lanier cited the constant stream of composite content on Instagram and the autoplay feature on YouTube as examples. There would have been design choices aimed at maximising engagement and promoting addiction. Meta-CEO Mark Zuckerberg and Instagram boss Adam Mosseri are expected to testify at the trial.
The case has attracted a lot of attention because of its potential to set legal precedents in the US, especially with regard to the responsibility of social media companies for the mental health of young users.
This lawsuit follows hundreds of other lawsuits alleging that social media platforms have contributed to depression, eating disorders and even suicide among young people. Parallels are being drawn by lawyers to previous lawsuits against the tobacco industry. According to them, social media companies would knowingly sell a harmful product.
The Internet giants typically claim protection under section 230 of the US Communications Decency Act. This section does not hold them liable for user-generated content. This case also challenges that defence, arguing that the giants’ business models are per se harmful.
Meta and YouTube have denied the allegations. They want to remain committed to providing safe and healthy experiences for young users.
The lawsuit in Los Angeles is just one of many legal battles taking place across the country. School districts and attorneys general from several states are also filing lawsuits against social media companies for allegedly endangering young people.
Meta is even accused of putting profits above user safety in another lawsuit in New Mexico. They are alleged to have done so by allowing its platforms to become a haven for the exploitation of children.
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