Santa Fe, N.M. — Jurors in a trial concerning the impact of social media on children were shown a deposition of Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg on Wednesday. The deposition focused on what Meta knew about the potential negative experiences of young users and the company’s response.
Allegations and Defense
Recent Mexico’s attorney general alleges Meta violated state consumer protection laws by failing to disclose knowledge about the dangers of social media addiction and child sexual exploitation on its platforms. Meta’s attorneys contend the company discloses risks and works to remove harmful content, while acknowledging some problematic material still appears.
Zuckerberg’s Testimony
During the deposition, recorded last year, prosecutors questioned Zuckerberg about internal communications and user feedback regarding addictive use of social media. Zuckerberg stated he disagreed with characterizing the platforms as “addictive,” describing the term as “colloquial.”
Zuckerberg also said he wants to “make sure that we can understand so we can improve the products and make them better for people in ways that they want.” He conceded that, initially, goals were set for employees to increase the amount of time teenagers spent on the platform to expand business revenue and user numbers.
He stated that around 2017, the company shifted its focus to other metrics. The deposition also covered Zuckerberg’s decision to reinstate cosmetic filters on Instagram, despite a temporary ban related to concerns about promoting plastic surgery.
Zuckerberg explained he prioritizes allowing users to express themselves and did not find anecdotal examples of harm “convincing.”
Ongoing Legal Battles
The New Mexico case, now in its fourth week, and a separate trial in Los Angeles could influence thousands of similar lawsuits against social media companies. Meta prohibits users under 13, though some younger individuals still access the platforms.
Zuckerberg testified last month in Los Angeles about young people’s use of Instagram and previously answered questions from Congress regarding youth safety on Meta’s platforms. During his 2024 congressional testimony, he apologized to families affected by tragedies linked to social media, but stopped short of accepting direct responsibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Meta accused of in the New Mexico case?
New Mexico’s attorney general alleges that Meta violated state consumer protection laws by failing to disclose what it knew about the dangers of addiction to social media and child sexual exploitation on its platforms.
What did Mark Zuckerberg say about the term “addictive” when describing his platforms?
Zuckerberg took issue with the word “addictive,” stating he thought people used it “colloquially” and that it wasn’t how he believed the products worked.
Did Zuckerberg acknowledge setting goals related to time spent on the platform?
Zuckerberg conceded that he initially set goals for employees to increase the amount of time teenagers spent on the platform to expand business revenue and the number of platform users.
As these trials unfold, will social media companies be compelled to fundamentally alter their approaches to user safety and platform design?