Mark Zuckerberg faced intense questioning this week in a packed federal courtroom in Washington, D.C., as a landmark social media addiction trial unfolded that could cost major tech platforms billions of dollars.
The Meta CEO, 41, took the stand on Tuesday as part of a sweeping civil case brought by families and several state attorneys general who allege that social media companies knowingly designed addictive features that harmed young users.
According to The New York Times, the case consolidates dozens of lawsuits claiming platforms prioritized engagement and profit over teen mental health. Plaintiffs argue that algorithmic feeds, push notifications, and certain design choices contributed to anxiety, depression, and other struggles among adolescents.
Zuckerberg, dressed in a dark suit and light blue tie, answered questions for hours about Meta’s internal research and safety policies. At several points, attorneys pressed him on whether the company was aware that some features could foster compulsive use.
“We care deeply about the safety and well being of young people,” Zuckerberg told the court. “No one at Meta builds products with the goal of harming anyone.”
Lawyers for the plaintiffs countered that internal documents show executives were aware of potential risks. One attorney read from emails discussing user engagement metrics among teens.
“You saw the data,” the attorney said. “You knew these features increased time spent on the platform.”
Zuckerberg responded, “We study engagement to improve user experience. We also invest heavily in safety tools and parental controls.”
Outside the courthouse, several parents spoke through tears about their children’s experiences online. One mother said, “We are not here for revenge. We are here for accountability.”
Meta said in a statement that it has introduced dozens of safety updates over the past decade, including teen time limits and content filters. “The evidence will show that we have consistently worked to support families,” the company said.
The trial marks one of the most significant legal challenges Zuckerberg has faced since co founding Facebook in 2004. Under his leadership, the platform grew into a global network with billions of users and later rebranded as Meta in 2021 to reflect its focus on virtual reality and the metaverse.
In recent years, Zuckerberg has testified before Congress on issues ranging from data privacy to election interference. However, this case centers on a deeply personal issue for many families, youth mental health.
Research from public health agencies has drawn attention to rising rates of teen anxiety and depression, though experts continue to debate the precise role social media plays. Lawmakers across party lines have proposed stricter regulations on tech companies in response.
For Zuckerberg, who is also a father of three, the scrutiny carries a different tone. “As a parent, I understand these concerns,” he said during testimony. “We want to be part of the solution.”
Legal analysts say the financial stakes are enormous. If the court finds the companies liable, damages and mandated changes to platform design could reshape the industry.
The trial is expected to continue for several weeks, with additional executives and expert witnesses scheduled to testify. A ruling could take months, and appeals are widely anticipated.
For now, Zuckerberg returns each morning to a courtroom that feels far removed from Silicon Valley boardrooms, facing questions that may define the next chapter of social media’s future.