Feb 17 • 15:05 UTC 🇩🇪 Germany FAZ

Social Media: Before Zuckerberg Statement: What the Addiction Process Means for Social Media

Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg is testifying in a lawsuit regarding the addiction potential of social media, which raises significant questions for tech companies.

Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg is set to testify in a court case focusing on the addictive nature of social media, following a lawsuit filed by a 20-year-old woman known by the initials KGM. The plaintiff alleges that social media platforms are deliberately designed to be addictive, exploiting features like endless scrolling that keep users engaged for extended periods. This lawsuit poses not only a personal challenge for Zuckerberg but also broader implications for the tech industry and its approach to user engagement and mental health.

As part of her claim, KGM highlights her early exposure to social media, starting with YouTube at the age of six and progressing to Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok under circumstances that were not in compliance with age restrictions. The case raises critical questions about the responsibility of tech companies in protecting vulnerable users, particularly minors. The outcome could influence future regulations and how companies design their platforms, potentially leading to changes that would mitigate addictive features.

The technology sector is watching closely, as the case could set a precedent regarding accountability for social media companies in fostering dependency among users. If courts determine that these platforms are indeed designed to create addiction, it could lead to significant legal and operational changes, including potential fines, stricter regulations, and a shift in how social media companies engage with their users, focusing more on mental health and responsible usage.

📡 Similar Coverage