Massachusetts court hears arguments in lawsuit alleging Meta designed apps to be addictive to kids

In a significant legal battle, Massachusetts' highest court convened to hear arguments regarding a lawsuit that claims Meta intentionally crafted features on Facebook and Instagram to foster addiction among young users. This lawsuit, initiated by Attorney General Andrea Campbell in 2024, contends that the company prioritized profit over the well-being of minors, impacting the lives of countless teenagers across the state. State Solicitor David Kravitz emphasized that the lawsuit is grounded in Meta's own tools, citing internal research that purportedly indicates these features are designed to promote addictive behaviors. He clarified that the case does not hinge on Meta's algorithms or content moderation shortcomings. In response, Meta firmly rejected the allegations, asserting confidence that the evidence will demonstrate its longstanding commitment to the safety of young users. Attorney Mark Mosier defended the company in court, arguing that the lawsuit could impose undue liabilities that challenge traditional publishing practices and that the First Amendment protects their actions. He stated that the Commonwealth would have a stronger case if it could prove the speech was false or fraudulent, but acknowledged the truthful nature of the claims complicates the situation regarding First Amendment protections. This lawsuit is part of a broader pattern of legal challenges facing Meta, including federal and state claims that the company knowingly designed features—like incessant notifications and endless scrolling—that contribute to addiction in children. Additionally, in 2023, 33 states united in a lawsuit against the tech giant, accusing it of unlawfully gathering data on children under 13 without parental consent, breaching federal regulations. Furthermore, Massachusetts and other states have filed individual lawsuits addressing the potentially harmful aspects of Meta's platforms on child users. Critics continue to voice concerns that Meta has not taken adequate measures to address issues surrounding teen safety and mental health. A report from whistleblower Arturo Bejar and several nonprofit organizations this year suggested that Meta has opted for superficial solutions over meaningful changes to enhance safety for young users. Meta has countered these claims, asserting that the report mischaracterizes its efforts in promoting teen safety.