London Deputy Managing Partner Terry Green was quoted by ITV News regarding the outcome of a landmark US trial that accused tech giants Meta and YouTube of intentionally addicting a young woman and injuring her mental health, and in which the jury found both companies liable on all counts. This decision could set a precedent for similar litigation, lead to changes in how social media platforms operate (especially for young users) and even cause losses in the millions, or potentially billions, for tech companies.
Terry explained that "social media companies may be forced to settle outstanding claims as part of the wider litigation and make significant changes to their features."
"Cases like this have been taking place in this manner due to the absence of a clear digital platform regime in the United States," he said. "This case is unlikely to affect UK policy and decisions, as the UK has a clearer regime in place. Platforms already have an established legal duty of care and duty to protect children under the Online Safety Act."
"Social media addiction trial: What does the landmark US ruling mean for the UK?" ITV News, March 26, 2026
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