Meta files appeal of California jury verdict in teen social-media addiction case

Meta Platforms Inc. filed a notice of appeal Tuesday in Los Angeles County Superior Court, challenging a jury verdict that held its Instagram and Facebook services, along with Google-owned YouTube, responsible for addicting a young user. The case involved a 20-year-old woman, identified only as K.G.M., who testified that she became dependent on social media as a child, worsening her mental-health condition. The jury awarded her $3 million in compensatory damages and recommended an equal amount in punitive damages.

"We expect the appellate court to continue the careful application of the law to this case, affirming the verdict of the trial court," said Mark Lanier, the plaintiff’s lead attorney.

Meta’s spokesperson reiterated a prior statement that teen mental health is "profoundly complex and cannot be linked to a single app." Google’s representative, José Castañeda, said YouTube will also appeal, describing the motions as "standard" for the case. Both companies had previously sought judgment notwithstanding the verdict and a new trial, but the trial judge denied those requests in early June.

The lawsuit focused on platform design features such as infinite scrolling and autoplay, arguing they circumvent Section 230 protections that shield tech firms from liability for third-party content. The California verdict follows a separate New Mexico jury finding that Meta’s platforms harm children’s mental health, which imposed a $375 million penalty. Meta has indicated it will appeal that judgment as well, asserting confidence in its record of protecting teens online.