A landmark verdict in the case against Meta and YouTube has been delivered in the United States. A jury in Los Angeles ordered the tech giants to pay $6 million to a 20-year-old plaintiff, Kayla G. M., who accused the platforms of deliberately fostering addiction.

The plaintiff stated that excessive use of social media from an early age led to the development of depression, anxiety, and body image disorder.

Following the investigation, the jury concluded that the issue lies in the very architecture of the platforms. Recommendation algorithms and the «infinite scroll» were designed to maximize user engagement. The court признало that such mechanisms intentionally cultivate addiction, posing particular risks to the still-developing minds of teenagers.

As a result, the court ordered the companies to pay $3 million in compensatory damages and an additional $3 million in punitive damages. Meta is responsible for 70% of the total, while YouTube must cover the remaining 30%.

However, the companies disagree with the ruling. Meta insists that the plaintiff’s psychological issues cannot be attributed solely to social media, without considering other life factors. Meanwhile, Google stated that YouTube is primarily a video-hosting platform, not a tool designed to create addiction. Both corporations have already announced their intention to appeal, according to Variety.

Photo: depositphotos

American rap legend Eminem appears ready to take down Meta. The artist has filed a lawsuit against Meta for copyright infringement involving 243 of his tracks.

According to People, Eminem’s publishing company Eight Mile Style is accusing Meta Platforms – the parent company of Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp – of unauthorized storage, reproduction, and use of the artist’s songs on its platforms. In other words, the company allegedly uploaded 243 of Eminem’s songs, including instrumental versions and covers, into its music libraries without permission, licenses, or rights.

As a result, the 52-year-old performer is demanding the removal of his tracks from Meta’s platforms and is seeking over $36 million in damages – $150,000 for each song.

Meta has not yet responded to the allegations.

Photo: Instagram @eminem