Meta is on trial in Oakland over accusations that its social media apps were built to keep children hooked. 29 states have sued, demanding about $193 billion in fines and sweeping changes to the platforms.
Prosecutors argue that Meta’s business model is to hook users, keep them engaged, harvest data, and hide the truth. They say the company knew children were especially vulnerable and used that knowledge to design features that increase time spent online.
Meta denies the allegations, saying it works with parents, experts and law enforcement to protect young users. The firm also claims the states are seeking excessive penalties and changes that affect the whole tech industry.
The lawsuit focuses on Meta’s own design choices, not individual harmful posts. It holds the company accountable for what it said, did, and chose to do.
Allegations include that Meta misled the public about risks to minors, added features to boost children’s screen time, and collected data from users under 13 without parental consent.
States want court‑ordered changes such as limiting children’s screen time and improving age verification on Facebook and Instagram.
Legal experts compare the case to the 1990s tobacco lawsuits, suggesting a potential industry shift. Professor Vincent Joralemon noted the parallels, while Professor Nora Freeman Engstrom warned that a verdict could trigger broader reforms.
Senior executives, including CEO Mark Zuckerberg and Instagram head Adam Mosseri, are expected to testify. The trial is scheduled to run for several weeks.
The case reflects growing global pressure to curb social media’s impact on children. Australia, parts of Europe, and the US are all moving toward tighter restrictions on young users.
Parents who say their children suffered from excessive use call for accountability. Lori Schott, whose child reportedly committed suicide due to social media, said, "Power does not excuse harm. Profits do not erase responsibility."
A verdict is expected by October. The outcome will test whether platforms can be legally held responsible for design choices that allegedly encourage excessive use among children.