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Landmark Trial: Tech Giants Face Claims of Deliberate Addiction

By Euronews with AP
Published on
27/01/2026 – 14:38 GMT+1

Introduction to the Case

This week marks the commencement of a pivotal trial involving three of the globe’s largest technology companies in the United States. The lawsuit centers on allegations that these platforms have intentionally created addictive environments that could harm children adversely.

The Plaintiff’s Experience

The lawsuit was initiated by a 19-year-old identified simply by the initials “KGM.” KGM asserts that her early and extensive use of Meta’s Instagram, ByteDance’s TikTok, and Google’s YouTube has significantly contributed to her struggles with depression and suicidal thoughts. The implications of KGM’s claims extend beyond her personal experiences, potentially affecting how tech companies are viewed regarding their responsibilities toward younger users.

Allegations of Intentional Design Choices

KGM alleges that these technology corporations employed specific design tactics akin to those used in casinos, aimed at increasing addiction levels among children. According to the lawsuit, these deliberate choices have been made not just for the sake of user engagement, but with the intention of maximizing profits at the expense of vulnerable young minds.

If KGM’s argument succeeds in court, it could set a precedent that begins to unravel certain protections currently in place for tech companies, especially those shielding them from liability regarding content on their networks.

Impact of the Lawsuit

The lawsuit contends, “Plaintiffs are not merely collateral damage of defendants’ products. They are the direct victims of the intentional product design choices made by each defendant… that pushed them into self-destructive feedback loops.” This highlights the notion that the relationship between children and these platforms may be more than passive consumption; it has become a dangerous cycle of dependency.

legal experts, such as Clay Calvert, a nonresident senior fellow of technology policy studies at the American Enterprise Institute, underscore the significance of this case. The outcome could influence thousands of similar complaints against social media companies, setting a critical benchmark for potential damages and accountability.

Key Testimonies and Corporate Responses

Prominent figures, including Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg and other corporate executives, are expected to testify during the trial, which may last up to eight weeks. Meanwhile, Meta, YouTube, and TikTok have yet to provide substantive comments to the press regarding the allegations. Previously, Snap Inc., the parent company of Snapchat, chose to settle a similar case just last week, although the financial terms of the settlement remain undisclosed.

In a proactive approach, Meta has issued a blog post asserting that attributing the mental health issues faced by teens solely to social media is an oversimplification. The blog emphasizes the complexity of teen challenges, which include academic stress, school safety, socio-economic difficulties, and substance abuse, rather than placing the onus solely on their platforms.

Broader legal Landscape

The KGM case is merely the first of what appears to be a wave of litigation against tech giants this year. Educational institutions in California are pursuing legal action against social media platforms, claiming that these technologies have inflicted harm on children. In addition, over 40 lawsuits have been filed against Meta by various state governments, while TikTok is facing similar litigation across several states.

In Europe, the situation is no different. Families in Italy and France have initiated class action lawsuits against both Meta and TikTok, arguing that their platforms have contributed to damaging the well-being of their children. Notably, a hearing for the Italian case is scheduled for February 12, facilitated by the law firm Ambrosio e Commodo, which represents the concerned families.

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For individuals like KGM, or families involved in similar lawsuits, this tool can demystify legal jargon, helping them understand their rights, the implications of their claims, and the potential outcomes. Moreover, it can assist in drafting legal documents and preparing cases, ensuring that plaintiffs can effectively present their arguments in a court of law. Ultimately, the AI legalese decoder serves as a valuable resource, empowering individuals to navigate the intricate and often intimidating landscape of legal proceedings.

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