A lawsuit against Meta accuses CEO Mark Zuckerberg of neglecting concerns over Instagram’s impact on mental health.
The legal filing led by the Massachusetts state government alleges that since 2019, Zuckerberg and other Meta executives ignored requests to eliminate plastic surgery filters on Instagram and Facebook.
These requests, based on mental health experts’ concerns, highlighted the potential harm to young users, especially girls.
READ MORE: Meta Sued For Using Addictive Features Targeting Children On Facebook And Instagram
The complaint references an internal email where Instagram’s policy head reportedly urged Zuckerberg to deactivate these filters.
They highlighted their potential to promote body dysmorphia among young girls.
Despite these concerns, the lawsuit asserts Zuckerberg chose to maintain “plastic surgery simulation camera filters” on the platforms.
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It quotes Zuckerberg claiming a ‘clear demand’ for these filters.
It also claims he wrongly stated there was ‘no data’ indicating their harm.
100 page lawsuit accuses Meta of ignoring its own research
The lawsuit accuses Meta of ignoring its own research about the harm and addictive nature of its platforms.
Following a report by The Wall Street Journal, it also claims Meta neglected additional investments in young users’ well-being from 2018 to 2022.
Meta hits back
A Meta spokesperson said it has “over 30 tools and resources” available for teens and parents.
They criticized the lawsuit for its selective use of information an claimed it doesn’t fully represent Meta’s operations or decision-making.
The lawsuit is part of a broader legal challenge against Meta.
Numerous states allege its platforms damage young people’s mental health.
Federal and state lawsuits have accused Meta of knowingly creating addictive, harmful features on Instagram and Facebook, particularly targeting children and teens.
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In May, U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy issued an advisory highlighting the significant risk excessive social media use poses to youth mental health.
This lawsuit claims daily, 350,000 teenagers in Massachusetts, aged 13-17, use Instagram a day.
It accuses Meta of exploiting these young users’ developing brains, ensuring they frequently return and spend extended time on its platforms.
The lawsuit could lead to significant civil penalties for the company , up to $5,000 per violation, and potentially require restitution to users.
Channa Lloyd, from The Cochran Firm, not involved in the lawsuit, suggested that a guilty verdict for Meta and Instagram could usher in unprecedented social media regulations, safeguards, and usage guidelines.
