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A landmark California trial has begun, accusing Meta and YouTube of deliberately designing platforms to be addictive, especially targeting children. Testimonies reveal internal debates over safety measures and profit motives, with the case potentially setting a precedent for future litigation on social media's impact on mental health.
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Prosecutors in New Mexico and California are using depositions from Meta leaders to build cases alleging the company’s platforms harm children and contribute to addiction. Meta disputes these claims, highlighting efforts to address harmful content. The cases could influence thousands of similar lawsuits worldwide.
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As of March 6, 2026, Indonesia has enacted a regulation banning children under 16 from having accounts on high-risk social media platforms including YouTube, TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, Threads, X, Roblox, and Bigo Live. The ban will be implemented gradually starting March 28, with penalties for non-compliant platforms. This makes Indonesia the first Southeast Asian country to impose such restrictions, following Australia's December 2025 ban.
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Meta, the owner of Facebook and Instagram, is being sued by New Mexico prosecutors for allegedly failing to disclose known risks of social media addiction and child exploitation. The trial examines internal research and Meta’s response to these issues, with CEO Mark Zuckerberg testifying about platform safety and corporate priorities.
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Britain and Australia are advancing measures to restrict children's access to social media and harmful content. The UK regulators demand stronger age verification and safety protections from platforms like TikTok and Meta, while Australia enforces a nationwide ban on social media for under-16s and new laws to prevent minors from accessing age-inappropriate content. These efforts aim to address concerns over online harms, addiction, and exposure to harmful material, amid ongoing debates about effectiveness and privacy risks.
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A New York Times report highlights increased screen time in US elementary schools, with concerns over its impact on children's health and development. Despite efforts to limit device use, many schools continue to rely heavily on technology, raising questions about long-term effects.
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Australia's ban on social media apps for under-16s, implemented in December, has led to a decline in usage but not complete compliance. Data indicates over 20% of teens still access platforms like TikTok and Snapchat, raising questions about the ban's effectiveness and enforcement challenges.
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A California jury found Meta and YouTube negligent for designing addictive platforms that harmed a young woman, KGM, who started using social media as a child. The verdict includes damages and potential punitive damages, marking a significant legal precedent in social media liability cases.