In a landmark decision, a Los Angeles jury has found Meta and YouTube liable for designing addictive features which harmed a young user. The plaintiff, identified as KGM, testified that prolonged use from early childhood contributed to depression, self-harm, and diagnosed mental health conditions. Jurors concluded the companies were negligent and failed to provide adequate warnings, awarding $6m in damages. The case drew comparisons to past litigation against tobacco firms, focusing on product design and knowledge of harm. Both companies deny wrongdoing and plan to appeal, arguing that mental health issues are complex. This trial is the first in a consolidated group of cases brought in California against Meta, TikTok, YouTube and Snap on behalf of more than 1,600 plaintiffs, including more than 350 families and 250 school districts. TikTok and Snap settled the KGM lawsuit just before the trial began. See also