Los Angeles: Mark Zuckerberg, CEO of Meta Platforms, has taken the witness stand in a closely watched trial examining whether social media platforms are addictive for children.
The case, unfolding before a jury in Los Angeles, marks Zuckerberg’s first jury testimony with mounting global scrutiny of tech companies’ impact on young users. Lawyers for the plaintiff confronted Zuckerberg with internal company communications alleging that Meta targeted younger audiences despite official policies barring users under 13.
Zuckerberg rejected the claims, arguing that the documents were being ‘mischaracterised’ and insisting the company has worked to protect minors across its platforms, including Instagram, Facebook and WhatsApp.
Internal emails under spotlight
Attorney Mark Lanier presented emails suggesting Meta executives were concerned that age restrictions were not being effectively enforced. One communication from Nick Clegg, former UK deputy prime minister and Meta’s ex-head of global affairs, warned that weak enforcement made it difficult to claim the company was doing all it could to safeguard children.
Another 2018 presentation referenced retaining ‘tweens’ on the platform, raising questions about under-13 engagement. Zuckerberg responded that the discussions related to exploring regulated services for younger users, citing the company’s Messenger Kids app as an example.
Focus on teen engagement
Court proceedings also highlighted Meta’s historic emphasis on teenage users. Emails from 2015 and 2017 showed executives discussing goals to increase time spent on platforms and reverse declining teen usage trends. Zuckerberg acknowledged setting such targets earlier in the company’s history but said the approach has since changed.
The lawsuit, brought by a plaintiff identified as K.G.M., alleges that prolonged exposure to platforms, including YouTube, contributed to harmful addictive behaviour during childhood. TikTok and Snapchat were also named but settled shortly before the trial began.
Wider legal and global implications
The trial is one of thousands of similar lawsuits filed across the United States by families, school districts and state officials accusing social media companies of harming children’s mental health. In a separate action, attorneys general from 29 states are seeking immediate changes, including mandatory removal of accounts belonging to users under 13.
The proceedings come as governments worldwide consider stricter controls. Australia has already introduced a ban on social media accounts for under-16s, while the UK and several European countries are weighing similar measures.
The trial is expected to continue for several weeks, with testimony anticipated from former Meta employees and experts on youth digital behaviour. Its outcome could shape future regulation of social media platforms globally and influence thousands of pending cases.
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