Instagram Head Testifies in Landmark Social Media Trial, Disputes Clinical Addiction Claims
In a pivotal courtroom moment in Los Angeles, Adam Mosseri, the head of Meta's Instagram, took the stand on Wednesday to testify in a landmark social media trial. The case centers on whether social media companies should be held accountable for harms to children who use their platforms, with addiction being a key legal pillar. Mosseri firmly stated his disagreement with the notion that people can be clinically addicted to social media platforms like Instagram.
Core of the Trial and Bellwether Cases
At the heart of this Los Angeles trial is a 20-year-old individual identified only by the initials "KGM," whose lawsuit could set a precedent for thousands of similar cases against social media giants. Meta Platforms and Google's YouTube remain as the two primary defendants, following settlements by TikTok and Snap. KGM, along with two other plaintiffs, has been selected for bellwether trials, which serve as test cases to evaluate how arguments from both sides resonate with a jury before broader litigation proceeds.
Mosseri's Testimony on Addiction vs. Problematic Use
During his testimony, Mosseri emphasized the importance of distinguishing between clinical addiction and what he termed "problematic use." He explained that problematic use refers to situations where someone spends more time on Instagram than they feel good about, acknowledging that this definitely occurs. However, he clarified that he does not consider himself a medical expert when commenting on the legitimacy of social media addiction. Mosseri revealed that someone very close to him has experienced serious clinical addiction, which makes him particularly careful with his words.
The plaintiff's lawyer, Mark Lanier, challenged Mosseri by presenting quotes from a podcast interview where Mosseri had previously suggested the opposite view on addiction. In response, Mosseri admitted that he might have used the term "too casually" in that context, as people often do in everyday conversations.
Discussion on Cosmetic Filters and Platform Safety
Mosseri and Lanier engaged in a lengthy exchange about cosmetic filters on Instagram that alter users' appearances in ways that could promote plastic surgery. Mosseri defended the platform's approach, stating, "We are trying to be as safe as possible but also censor as little as possible." This discussion visibly upset bereaved parents of children who have struggled with social media-related issues, particularly around body dysmorphia. In response to such concerns, Meta shut down all third-party augmented reality filters in January 2025.
The judge intervened during the emotional displays in the courtroom, reminding the public not to indicate agreement or disagreement with testimony, as it would be improper to show any position.
Instagram's Safety Features and Ongoing Challenges
In recent years, Instagram has implemented numerous features and tools aimed at making the platform safer for young users. Despite these efforts, challenges persist. A report from last year highlighted that teen accounts created by researchers were recommended age-inappropriate sexual content, including graphic sexual descriptions, cartoons depicting demeaning sexual acts, and brief displays of nudity. Additionally, the platform recommended content related to self-harm, self-injury, and body image issues that could adversely impact young people's mental health, potentially leading to self-harm or suicidal behaviors.
Meta has strongly criticized this report, calling it "misleading, dangerously speculative" and arguing that it misrepresents the company's ongoing efforts to enhance teen safety.
Broader Legal Context
This Los Angeles trial is not Meta's only legal battle. The company is also facing a separate trial in New Mexico that began this week, further highlighting the increasing scrutiny on social media platforms regarding their impact on youth and overall user well-being. As these cases unfold, they could shape future regulations and corporate responsibilities in the digital age.
