Instagram Chief Adam Mosseri Testifies in Landmark Social Media Addiction Trial

The head of Instagram testified Wednesday in what is being described as a landmark trial over whether social media platforms can be held responsible for harm to young users.

Adam Mosseri, who has led Instagram since 2018, told a Los Angeles courtroom that he does not believe users can be “clinically addicted” to the app. However, he acknowledged that “problematic use” is possible and varies from person to person.

Mosseri is the first executive to testify in the case against Instagram and YouTube parent company Meta Platforms. The lawsuit was brought by a now 20-year-old woman who alleges the platforms intentionally developed addictive features that harmed her mental health. More than 1,500 similar cases have been filed, making this trial a potential test of how far liability for tech companies could extend.

During questioning, the plaintiff’s attorney pressed Mosseri about features such as infinite scroll, autoplay and the “like” button, arguing they function like a “chemical hit” for teens seeking validation. He was also questioned about Instagram’s use of beauty filters and internal discussions over whether some filters could contribute to body dysmorphia.

Mosseri testified that Instagram previously debated banning certain face-distorting filters but ultimately chose to prohibit those that explicitly promote cosmetic surgery while allowing others.

The case also revisits scrutiny following internal company documents leaked in 2021 that suggested Instagram could negatively impact teen girls’ mental health. Since then, the platform has introduced additional safety tools, including default protections for teen accounts.

The outcome of the trial could have significant implications for the tech industry, particularly as courts weigh the reach of Section 230, the federal law that shields platforms from liability for user-generated content.

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