A young American woman in her twenties has taken legal action against Instagram and YouTube, holding the companies accountable for the way their platforms are designed. She alleges that these designs fostered an addiction to technology, exacerbating her mental health issues and feeding into her suicidal ideations. The lawsuit positions the platforms as 'digital casinos', arguing that their methods of user engagement mimic gambling tactics intended for prolonged user retention. The 'infinite scrolling' feature is likened to a slot machine lever, while automatic playback and algorithmic recommendations are seen as pushing users towards compulsive and continuous use of these platforms.

The case has sparked significant conversation on social media, as highlighted by Al Jazeera's program 'Networks', which captured varying opinions. Some argue for increased regulation on digital platforms and online games, emphasizing the need for strict oversight to protect vulnerable users. Meanwhile, others place responsibility on parents, asserting that monitoring children's use of social media should be a familial duty, as these platforms cannot substitute for parental guidance and upbringing.

Activist Samah Al-Deeb has called for the abolition of such platforms and the implementation of strict regulations, addressing concerns for the mental well-being of individuals, particularly the youth. This lawsuit may set a precedent in understanding the implications of social media on mental health and could lead to further discussions on how technology companies are held accountable for their impact on users' lives.