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A historic trial held technology giants Meta and Google responsible for contributing to a young American’s social media addiction. The decision establishes the payment of compensation totaling US$3 million.
Of the total, around US$2.1 million must be paid by Meta, while Google was ordered to pay approximately US$900,000. The case was analyzed in Los Angeles and could set precedents for new lawsuits against technology companies.
According to the action, the young woman, now 20 years old, developed dependence on the platforms while still a teenager. She reported that excessive use, driven by application design mechanisms, worsened her depression.
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During the process, the authors focused on the structural features of the platforms, such as algorithms and retention incentives, and not on the published content. This point was decisive in holding companies accountable, which tried to exempt themselves by claiming freedom of use.
The trial also involved other platforms. Snapchat and TikTok were included as defendants, but they reached an agreement with the young woman before the case was concluded.
After the decision, Meta stated that it disagrees with the sentence and informed that it will appeal. Google has also signaled that it intends to challenge the result in court.
Experts believe that the case could influence future discussions about the responsibility of big tech in the impact of prolonged use of social networks, especially among teenagers and young adults.
Globo News
