youth mental health

A landmark trial against Meta, YouTube, and TikTok begins, accusing tech giants of intentionally misleading the public about app safety and design flaws that harm young users. This case, the first of its kind to reach trial, aims to bypass Section 230 protections by focusing on alleged design defects rather than user content. Similar lawsuits are underway, with potential outcomes drawing parallels to the “Big Tobacco” litigation and could reshape tech regulation and public perception. Companies deny wrongdoing, emphasizing user safety and blaming third-party content creators.

Australia’s social media ban for under-16s, a month into effect, shows mixed results. While some teens report reduced digital distractions, others have found workarounds, questioning the law’s long-term effectiveness. Tech giants are implementing age verification under threat of hefty fines, aiming to protect minors from harmful content and mental health issues. Critics, however, argue the ban is difficult to enforce. The initiative is being closely watched globally as other nations consider similar measures to address concerns about youth screen time and digital well-being.