Claims Against Mark Zuckerberg Related to Risks and Injuries to Young Users Dismissed – For Now

Publish Date : 11/12/2024

A California federal judge dismissed claims against Mark Zuckerberg in a lawsuit accusing Meta of concealing the risks of social media on young users. The judge found the plaintiffs did not prove Zuckerberg’s direct involvement or authorization in hiding risks, which is required for holding him liable as a corporate officer. General claims about his control over Meta were deemed insufficient. Although future evidence could show more direct participation, the current allegations don’t meet the standard for corporate-officer liability.

This multidistrict litigation (MDL) involves claims from personal injury plaintiffs, school districts, local governments, and state attorneys general, alleging platforms like Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, and Snapchat were designed to be addictive, harming minors and impacting public health. While the claims against Zuckerberg were dismissed, the case against Meta continues. Lead plaintiffs’ attorneys emphasize they will pursue discovery to prove the prioritization of profit over safety. Judge Gonzalez Rogers has ruled Meta and other social media companies must still face most of the claims related to child addiction brought by school districts and other entities.

The case is In re: Social Media Adolescent Addiction/Personal Injury Products Liability Litigation, No. 4:22-md-03047, in the Northern District of California.