Just one day after Meta faced a similar child safety lawsuit setback in New Mexico, a jury in Los Angeles delivered another blow to the social media behemoth — this time alongside Google. In a case asserting that social media platforms significantly impacted a young woman’s mental well-being, jurors favored the plaintiff, identified by her initials, K.G.M., or her first name, Kaley.

This verdict requires Meta and Google to disburse $3 million in compensatory damages, with Meta responsible for 70% of that amount. Additional damages may be forthcoming as jurors continue their deliberations.

The pivotal case, held in Los Angeles County Superior Court, sought to hold the social media giants accountable for the harm linked to Instagram and YouTube specifically, which Kaley, now 20 years old, claimed exacerbated her anxiety, depression, body dysmorphia, and other issues during her childhood. Attorneys for Meta attempted to assert that external factors, such as Kaley’s tumultuous home environment and her parents’ split, were primarily to blame for her mental health challenges, not the company’s applications.

However, the evidence brought forth at trial convinced the jury to side with the plaintiff, highlighting that Meta was aware of how addictive its platforms could be for teenagers and that it was actively investigating this issue and applying its findings to boost engagement among young users.

In the lead-up to this case’s trial, both TikTok and Snap, who were also being pursued legally, reached settlements with the plaintiff.

The ruling — alongside other recent judgments, such as Tuesday’s decision in New Mexico — could set a precedent holding social media companies accountable for the harm their platforms inflict, whether due to insufficient safety protocols or algorithm-driven recommendations. This may pave the way for a new wave of lawsuits as other claimants seek damages.

Neither verdict is expected to be conclusive. Both Google and Meta are anticipated to appeal, and Meta has already indicated its intentions, with a spokesperson stating to the press that the company contests the verdict and is exploring its options.