Judge Rules Meta’s Zuckerberg Not Liable in Social Media Harm Lawsuits Involving Children

A federal judge recently ruled that Meta Platforms CEO Mark Zuckerberg will not be held personally liable in 25 lawsuits accusing his company of contributing to social media addiction among children. The lawsuits claimed that Meta knowingly created and promoted social media platforms that foster addictive behaviors, especially on Facebook and Instagram. However, Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers found that there was insufficient evidence to hold Zuckerberg directly responsible for concealing mental health risks associated with these platforms.

Lawsuits Targeting Meta and Social Media Harm

The plaintiffs argued that Zuckerberg was the “guiding spirit” behind Meta’s alleged concealment efforts. They pointed to internal warnings that were reportedly ignored and claimed that Zuckerberg publicly downplayed the mental health impacts of social media use. Despite these claims, the judge ruled that a lack of specific actions attributed directly to Zuckerberg meant he could not be held liable. The decision emphasized that “control of corporate activity alone is insufficient” for establishing personal liability.

Focus Shifts to Meta’s Corporate Responsibility

Meta social media harm lawsuits While Zuckerberg is not individually accountable, the lawsuits against Meta itself remain active. These cases argue that Meta’s platforms have caused serious mental health issues among children, contributing to anxiety, depression, and sleep disorders. The plaintiffs, represented by Previn Warren of Motley Rice, continue to gather evidence to establish how Meta may have prioritized profits over the safety of young users. Additionally, state attorneys general across the U.S. are pursuing similar claims against Meta, linking its platforms to interference with education and daily life among youth.

The outcome of these cases could have far-reaching implications for the role of social media in children’s mental health and the responsibility of tech companies to safeguard young users.

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