A Los Angeles jury has found Alphabet’s Google and Meta Platforms liable for $3 million in damages in a social media addiction lawsuit, a ruling that could set a precedent for thousands of similar cases. The lawsuit focused on the platforms' addictive design, which the plaintiff argued contributed to her addiction to YouTube and Instagram from a young age. This case, which highlights the growing concerns over social media’s impact on mental health, could influence future legal actions brought by parents, school districts, and attorneys general against tech giants.
The plaintiff, a 20-year-old woman, claimed that the attention-grabbing features of the apps led her to develop an addiction, marking a significant legal focus on the platforms' design rather than the content itself. The lawsuit was filed amid mounting criticism of social media companies for their role in the safety of children and teens. At least half of American teenagers use platforms like YouTube and Instagram daily, amplifying concerns over the prolonged exposure to these platforms.
Snapchat and TikTok were also named in the case but settled with the plaintiff before the trial commenced. Despite the ruling, Meta and Google have expressed their disagreement with the verdict, with Meta already evaluating further legal options. The ruling has minimal impact on the companies’ stock prices, as shares of Meta rose slightly, while Alphabet’s stock remained largely unchanged.
The case adds to the growing body of lawsuits focused on social media addiction, with other similar cases expected to go to trial in federal and state courts. Critics have long called for more stringent regulations on social media use, but Congress has yet to pass comprehensive legislation on the matter. Meanwhile, numerous states have enacted laws governing social media use among children, with some requiring age verification for account creation, a measure that tech trade associations are challenging in court.
As the debate intensifies, the impact of this verdict on future legislation and lawsuits against tech companies remains to be seen. The ruling could be a crucial step in holding companies accountable for the design of platforms that contribute to addiction and harm, particularly among vulnerable youth populations.
A Los Angeles jury has found Alphabet’s Google and Meta Platforms liable for $3 million in damages in a social media addiction lawsuit, a ruling that could set a precedent for thousands of similar cases. The lawsuit focused on the platforms' addictive design, which the plaintiff argued contributed to her addiction to YouTube and Instagram from a young age. This case, which highlights the growing concerns over social media’s impact on mental health, could influence future legal actions brought by parents, school districts, and attorneys general against tech giants.
The plaintiff, a 20-year-old woman, claimed that the attention-grabbing features of the apps led her to develop an addiction, marking a significant legal focus on the platforms' design rather than the content itself. The lawsuit was filed amid mounting criticism of social media companies for their role in the safety of children and teens. At least half of American teenagers use platforms like YouTube and Instagram daily, amplifying concerns over the prolonged exposure to these platforms.
Snapchat and TikTok were also named in the case but settled with the plaintiff before the trial commenced. Despite the ruling, Meta and Google have expressed their disagreement with the verdict, with Meta already evaluating further legal options. The ruling has minimal impact on the companies’ stock prices, as shares of Meta rose slightly, while Alphabet’s stock remained largely unchanged.
The case adds to the growing body of lawsuits focused on social media addiction, with other similar cases expected to go to trial in federal and state courts. Critics have long called for more stringent regulations on social media use, but Congress has yet to pass comprehensive legislation on the matter. Meanwhile, numerous states have enacted laws governing social media use among children, with some requiring age verification for account creation, a measure that tech trade associations are challenging in court.
As the debate intensifies, the impact of this verdict on future legislation and lawsuits against tech companies remains to be seen. The ruling could be a crucial step in holding companies accountable for the design of platforms that contribute to addiction and harm, particularly among vulnerable youth populations.
A Los Angeles jury has found Meta and YouTube negligent in the design and operation of their platforms, delivering a significant verdict in one of the first trials addressing allegations of social media addiction. The jury concluded that both companies played a substantial role in causing harm to the plaintiff, identified as K.G.M., and failed to adequately warn users about potential risks associated with Instagram and YouTube.
The panel awarded $3 million in compensatory damages, a
A Los Angeles jury has found Meta and YouTube negligent in the design and operation of their platforms, delivering a significant verdict in one of the first trials addressing allegations of social media addiction. The jury concluded that both companies played a substantial role in causing harm to the plaintiff, identified as K.G.M., and failed to adequately warn users about potential risks associated with Instagram and YouTube.
The panel awarded $3 million in compensatory damages, a
The Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2026 has been hit by a major disruption after the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced drastic changes to the tournament format. Due to the ongoing fuel shortage triggered by the West Asia conflict, the PCB has decided to stage the matches behind closed doors and restrict the tournament to only two venues Lahore and Karachi. This decision has raised eyebrows, and social media users have mocked the league, dubbing it the Petrol Shortage League.
The P
The Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2026 has been hit by a major disruption after the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced drastic changes to the tournament format. Due to the ongoing fuel shortage triggered by the West Asia conflict, the PCB has decided to stage the matches behind closed doors and restrict the tournament to only two venues Lahore and Karachi. This decision has raised eyebrows, and social media users have mocked the league, dubbing it the Petrol Shortage League.
The P
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday released a video on social media appearing to dismiss rumours circulating online that falsely claimed he had died. The clip, shared through his official account on the platform X, shows the Israeli leader casually speaking with people at an outdoor location while purchasing a cup of coffee. The post surfaced as speculation and misinformation about the prime minister’s health and status spread across various social media platforms.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday released a video on social media appearing to dismiss rumours circulating online that falsely claimed he had died. The clip, shared through his official account on the platform X, shows the Israeli leader casually speaking with people at an outdoor location while purchasing a cup of coffee. The post surfaced as speculation and misinformation about the prime minister’s health and status spread across various social media platforms.
In a historic move, Karnataka’s Chief Minister Siddaramaiah announced a ban on social media use for children under the age of 16 during the state’s 2026–27 Budget presentation. This decision is driven by growing concerns about smartphone addiction, online safety risks, and excessive screen exposure, which have become major issues for young users. Karnataka is now the first state in India to take a definitive stance on regulating children’s access to social media, with other states lik
In a historic move, Karnataka’s Chief Minister Siddaramaiah announced a ban on social media use for children under the age of 16 during the state’s 2026–27 Budget presentation. This decision is driven by growing concerns about smartphone addiction, online safety risks, and excessive screen exposure, which have become major issues for young users. Karnataka is now the first state in India to take a definitive stance on regulating children’s access to social media, with other states lik
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has achieved a major digital milestone as his official YouTube channel surpassed 30 million subscribers, making him the most followed world leader on the platform. The achievement highlights the Prime Minister’s unmatched global digital presence and reinforces his dominance across social media platforms.
According to official sources, the subscriber count places Narendra Modi well ahead of other prominent international leaders. Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, who holds the second-highest subscriber base among world leaders on YouTube, has only about one-fourth of Modi’s subscribers. Similarly, US President Donald Trump trails far behind, with Modi reportedly having more than seven times the number of subscribers.
The Prime Minister’s strong presence on YouTube reflects his strategic use of digital platforms to connect directly with citizens in India and audiences worldwide. His channel features speeches, policy announcements, live event broadcasts, campaign messages, and cultural highlights, drawing millions of views regularly. The content appeals not only to domestic supporters but also to the Indian diaspora and global viewers interested in India’s political landscape.
Within India, Modi’s digital reach also surpasses that of his political rivals. His YouTube subscriber base is around three times larger than that of Congress leader Rahul Gandhi. It is also more than four times higher than the subscriber counts of the Aam Aadmi Party and the Indian National Congress when considered individually. This gap underscores the Bharatiya Janata Party leader’s commanding influence in the digital political arena.
The YouTube milestone comes just weeks after Modi became the first world leader to cross 100 million followers on Instagram. Having joined the platform in 2014, his Instagram account has evolved into one of the most engaging profiles among global political figures. Over the past decade, he has consistently leveraged visual storytelling, behind-the-scenes moments, diplomatic engagements, and public outreach initiatives to maintain high engagement rates.
Political analysts note that Modi’s digital strategy has played a crucial role in shaping modern political communication in India. By effectively utilizing social media platforms such as YouTube and Instagram, he has managed to bypass traditional media channels and communicate directly with the public.
With 30 million YouTube subscribers and 100 million Instagram followers, Narendra Modi continues to set new benchmarks for digital engagement among world leaders. The milestone not only reflects his popularity but also signals the growing importance of online platforms in global politics and governance.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has achieved a major digital milestone as his official YouTube channel surpassed 30 million subscribers, making him the most followed world leader on the platform. The achievement highlights the Prime Minister’s unmatched global digital presence and reinforces his dominance across social media platforms.
According to official sources, the subscriber count places Narendra Modi well ahead of other prominent international leaders. Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, who holds the second-highest subscriber base among world leaders on YouTube, has only about one-fourth of Modi’s subscribers. Similarly, US President Donald Trump trails far behind, with Modi reportedly having more than seven times the number of subscribers.
The Prime Minister’s strong presence on YouTube reflects his strategic use of digital platforms to connect directly with citizens in India and audiences worldwide. His channel features speeches, policy announcements, live event broadcasts, campaign messages, and cultural highlights, drawing millions of views regularly. The content appeals not only to domestic supporters but also to the Indian diaspora and global viewers interested in India’s political landscape.
Within India, Modi’s digital reach also surpasses that of his political rivals. His YouTube subscriber base is around three times larger than that of Congress leader Rahul Gandhi. It is also more than four times higher than the subscriber counts of the Aam Aadmi Party and the Indian National Congress when considered individually. This gap underscores the Bharatiya Janata Party leader’s commanding influence in the digital political arena.
The YouTube milestone comes just weeks after Modi became the first world leader to cross 100 million followers on Instagram. Having joined the platform in 2014, his Instagram account has evolved into one of the most engaging profiles among global political figures. Over the past decade, he has consistently leveraged visual storytelling, behind-the-scenes moments, diplomatic engagements, and public outreach initiatives to maintain high engagement rates.
Political analysts note that Modi’s digital strategy has played a crucial role in shaping modern political communication in India. By effectively utilizing social media platforms such as YouTube and Instagram, he has managed to bypass traditional media channels and communicate directly with the public.
With 30 million YouTube subscribers and 100 million Instagram followers, Narendra Modi continues to set new benchmarks for digital engagement among world leaders. The milestone not only reflects his popularity but also signals the growing importance of online platforms in global politics and governance.
Thalapathy Vijay, one of Tamil cinema’s biggest superstars, is currently in the midst of a complicated personal situation following his wife Sangeeta’s decision to file for divorce. In her petition, she cited Vijay’s alleged extra-marital relationship as the reason behind their separation. The news has sent shockwaves through the public, and the latest media reports have only added fuel to the fire.
According to several national media sources, Vijay’s son, Jason Sanjay, has
Thalapathy Vijay, one of Tamil cinema’s biggest superstars, is currently in the midst of a complicated personal situation following his wife Sangeeta’s decision to file for divorce. In her petition, she cited Vijay’s alleged extra-marital relationship as the reason behind their separation. The news has sent shockwaves through the public, and the latest media reports have only added fuel to the fire.
According to several national media sources, Vijay’s son, Jason Sanjay, has
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has achieved a major milestone in the digital world, becoming the first world leader to amass 100 million followers on Instagram. This unprecedented achievement highlights his dominant presence on social media platforms and marks him as one of the most influential global political figures online.
Since joining Instagram in 2014, PM Modi’s account has grown significantly, providing glimpses into his official engagements, international visits, cultural m
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has achieved a major milestone in the digital world, becoming the first world leader to amass 100 million followers on Instagram. This unprecedented achievement highlights his dominant presence on social media platforms and marks him as one of the most influential global political figures online.
Since joining Instagram in 2014, PM Modi’s account has grown significantly, providing glimpses into his official engagements, international visits, cultural m
Selena Gomez has seemingly addressed the social media backlash following her husband Benny Blanco’s viral “dirty feet” moment. The incident, which unfolded during the premiere episode of the new podcast Friends Keep Secrets, led to heated discussions online, especially regarding Blanco’s grooming and public image. In what many fans interpreted as a direct response, Gomez shared a heartfelt video on Instagram, featuring the couple in an intimate moment, with the caption, “I
Selena Gomez has seemingly addressed the social media backlash following her husband Benny Blanco’s viral “dirty feet” moment. The incident, which unfolded during the premiere episode of the new podcast Friends Keep Secrets, led to heated discussions online, especially regarding Blanco’s grooming and public image. In what many fans interpreted as a direct response, Gomez shared a heartfelt video on Instagram, featuring the couple in an intimate moment, with the caption, “I
Shikhar Dhawan, the former Indian cricketer, has responded strongly to false rumors circulating about his personal life following his second marriage to Sophie Shine. The controversy started after a viral social media post claimed that Dhawan had said his ex-wife, Aesha Dhawan, once told him that no one would marry him after their separation. The post suggested that Dhawan’s remarriage was his way of proving her wrong. However, Dhawan firmly denied making such statements, calling the claims
Shikhar Dhawan, the former Indian cricketer, has responded strongly to false rumors circulating about his personal life following his second marriage to Sophie Shine. The controversy started after a viral social media post claimed that Dhawan had said his ex-wife, Aesha Dhawan, once told him that no one would marry him after their separation. The post suggested that Dhawan’s remarriage was his way of proving her wrong. However, Dhawan firmly denied making such statements, calling the claims
Bollywood legend Amitabh Bachchan has once again captured public attention with a mysterious and cryptic post on X, leaving fans puzzled and curious. The veteran actor, known for his thoughtful and often philosophical social media presence, shared a short yet striking message that immediately sparked widespread speculation. His post read, “T 5661(i) – CHUUUUUUPPPP!!!!” accompanied by an angry emoji, triggering a wave of reactions from his millions of followers across the platform.
Bollywood legend Amitabh Bachchan has once again captured public attention with a mysterious and cryptic post on X, leaving fans puzzled and curious. The veteran actor, known for his thoughtful and often philosophical social media presence, shared a short yet striking message that immediately sparked widespread speculation. His post read, “T 5661(i) – CHUUUUUUPPPP!!!!” accompanied by an angry emoji, triggering a wave of reactions from his millions of followers across the platform.
Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, and Google-owned YouTube are facing serious allegations in a closely watched trial that began Monday in California, with plaintiffs accusing the companies of deliberately designing social media platforms to be addictive for children. The case marks one of the first times a jury has been asked to directly assess whether major technology companies can be held legally responsible for the mental health consequences their products may have on you
Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, and Google-owned YouTube are facing serious allegations in a closely watched trial that began Monday in California, with plaintiffs accusing the companies of deliberately designing social media platforms to be addictive for children. The case marks one of the first times a jury has been asked to directly assess whether major technology companies can be held legally responsible for the mental health consequences their products may have on you
India’s Economic Survey 2025–26 has raised a serious warning over the rapid rise of digital addiction among children and adolescents, calling it a growing public health and economic risk. Tabled in Parliament on Thursday, the report highlights how excessive use of smartphones, social media, gaming platforms, and online entertainment is increasingly affecting mental wellbeing, academic performance, and long-term productivity among the country’s youth. The survey defines digital addiction
India’s Economic Survey 2025–26 has raised a serious warning over the rapid rise of digital addiction among children and adolescents, calling it a growing public health and economic risk. Tabled in Parliament on Thursday, the report highlights how excessive use of smartphones, social media, gaming platforms, and online entertainment is increasingly affecting mental wellbeing, academic performance, and long-term productivity among the country’s youth. The survey defines digital addiction
In a bold and surprising move, the Andhra Pradesh government has proposed banning social media access for children under the age of 16. This decision comes as part of an ongoing effort by the state government to protect the younger population from the harmful effects of social media platforms, including exposure to abusive content, misinformation, and online harassment. IT Minister Lokesh spoke with Bloomberg about this development, suggesting that the ban could be an effective way to safegua
In a bold and surprising move, the Andhra Pradesh government has proposed banning social media access for children under the age of 16. This decision comes as part of an ongoing effort by the state government to protect the younger population from the harmful effects of social media platforms, including exposure to abusive content, misinformation, and online harassment. IT Minister Lokesh spoke with Bloomberg about this development, suggesting that the ban could be an effective way to safegua
Tensions within one of the world’s most high-profile families have erupted publicly, casting uncertainty over the future of their carefully cultivated brand. Brooklyn Beckham, the eldest son, has made direct accusations against his parents, alleging years of emotional control and interference, and stating he does not wish to reconcile with them. The revelations mark a dramatic escalation in a family feud that has long simmered behind closed doors.
Brooklyn and his wife have been nav
Tensions within one of the world’s most high-profile families have erupted publicly, casting uncertainty over the future of their carefully cultivated brand. Brooklyn Beckham, the eldest son, has made direct accusations against his parents, alleging years of emotional control and interference, and stating he does not wish to reconcile with them. The revelations mark a dramatic escalation in a family feud that has long simmered behind closed doors.
Brooklyn and his wife have been nav
Microblogging platform X, formerly known as Twitter, experienced a widespread global outage on Tuesday, January 13, disrupting access for users across several regions. The platform, which hosts a wide range of content spanning news, entertainment, sports, and general discussion, saw users report significant difficulty in accessing both its mobile application and website. Complaints began surfacing as users encountered loading issues, delayed responses, and intermittent service interruptions.
Microblogging platform X, formerly known as Twitter, experienced a widespread global outage on Tuesday, January 13, disrupting access for users across several regions. The platform, which hosts a wide range of content spanning news, entertainment, sports, and general discussion, saw users report significant difficulty in accessing both its mobile application and website. Complaints began surfacing as users encountered loading issues, delayed responses, and intermittent service interruptions.
The Union government has sought additional information from social media platform X regarding the steps taken to address obscene and sexually explicit content linked to its artificial intelligence tool, Grok, and the measures planned to prevent similar incidents in the future, according to sources familiar with the matter. The request follows a detailed response submitted by the platform, which officials have assessed as insufficient in addressing key regulatory concerns.
Sources in
The Union government has sought additional information from social media platform X regarding the steps taken to address obscene and sexually explicit content linked to its artificial intelligence tool, Grok, and the measures planned to prevent similar incidents in the future, according to sources familiar with the matter. The request follows a detailed response submitted by the platform, which officials have assessed as insufficient in addressing key regulatory concerns.
Sources in
YouTuber Adam the Woo, a well-known travel and theme park content creator, has died at the age of 51 after being found unresponsive at his home in Celebration, Florida, authorities confirmed. The creator, whose legal name was David Adam Williams, was pronounced dead on Monday, Dec. 22, at his residence in the Orlando-area suburb.
According to the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office, deputies initially responded to Williams’ home earlier in the day for a well-being check. At that tim
YouTuber Adam the Woo, a well-known travel and theme park content creator, has died at the age of 51 after being found unresponsive at his home in Celebration, Florida, authorities confirmed. The creator, whose legal name was David Adam Williams, was pronounced dead on Monday, Dec. 22, at his residence in the Orlando-area suburb.
According to the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office, deputies initially responded to Williams’ home earlier in the day for a well-being check. At that tim
Tucker Genal, a social media content creator known for his comedy skits, challenges, and collaborative videos on TikTok, has died at the age of 31, according to authorities in Los Angeles County.
The County of Los Angeles Medical Examiner stated that Genal died by suicide at his residence on Thursday, December 11, 2025. No further details were disclosed by officials.
Genal’s death was confirmed publicly by his brothers, Carson and Connor, through a joint message shared o
Tucker Genal, a social media content creator known for his comedy skits, challenges, and collaborative videos on TikTok, has died at the age of 31, according to authorities in Los Angeles County.
The County of Los Angeles Medical Examiner stated that Genal died by suicide at his residence on Thursday, December 11, 2025. No further details were disclosed by officials.
Genal’s death was confirmed publicly by his brothers, Carson and Connor, through a joint message shared o
