Meta starts removing ads from lawyers seeking minors harmed by social media
Meta has begun removing advertisements from lawyers who are seeking minor clients claiming harm caused by social media platforms. This action follows weeks after Meta and YouTube were found liable in a California court case concerning social media addiction.
In Los Angeles, a jury found Meta (owner of Instagram, Facebook, WhatsApp) and Google (YouTube) responsible for causing psychological harm to a child for the first time. Following the verdict, Meta’s shares dropped by 8.5%, while stock prices for Reddit and Snap declined over 10–11%. This landmark case highlights increasing scrutiny over the impact of social media on young users’ mental health.
The plaintiff, 20-year-old Kaylee, began using YouTube at age six and Instagram at nine. She developed anxiety, depression, and body dysmorphic disorder, linked to Instagram filters. Kaylee also reported distancing herself from her family due to social media exposure.
Meta is a US technology company owning major social networks including Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp. As a leader in digital communication and advertising monetization, Meta now faces significant regulatory and legal challenges that may affect its operations.
The removal of lawyer ads and ongoing litigation reflect growing concerns about social media’s effects on children and teenagers. Legal developments may prompt tighter controls and changes in platform policies in the near future.
This news underscores the urgent need for responsible digital safety measures for minors and signals potential changes in social media regulation ahead.
