Meta on trial for allegedly hooking kids on social media

On August 18, 2026, a federal trial began in Oakland, California, where Meta Platforms faces a lawsuit from 29 U.S. states. The states allege that Meta knowingly designed Facebook and Instagram to addict young users, causing mental health issues, and misled the public about safety. California Deputy Attorney General Megan O'Neill presented internal documents showing Meta's focus on teen engagement. Meta denies the claims, citing its safety efforts. The trial, expected to last six to eight weeks, could result in billions in penalties and changes to platform design. Mark Zuckerberg and Adam Mosseri are expected to testify.