U.S. Meta decision could affect B.C. lawsuit, lawyer says
A U.S. court ruling against Meta regarding social media addiction may influence a similar class-action lawsuit in British Columbia.Summary
A recent U.S. court decision holding Meta and YouTube liable for designing platforms that addict young users could significantly impact a similar lawsuit underway in British Columbia. A jury awarded $6 million to a 20-year-old woman, KGM, who testified that her addiction to YouTube and Instagram, starting at ages six and nine respectively, led to anxiety, depression, and self-harm. This ruling follows another recent decision in New Mexico where Meta was ordered to pay $375 million for violating child safety laws. Lawyers in the B.C. class-action suit argue that these U.S. findings support their claims that Meta’s conduct is harmful to children and illegal in Canada. The Canadian lawsuit could potentially include thousands of children nationwide, though it has not yet been certified as a class action. Meta denies the allegations, and both companies are exploring legal appeals. Reidar Mogerman, co-lead counsel for the B.C. lawsuit, stated that the U.S. decisions provide a “beneficial step and guide” for their case.
(Source：Global News)