Home / Business and Economy / Court Skeptical of Social Media Immunity Claims
Court Skeptical of Social Media Immunity Claims
7 Jan
Summary
- Lawsuits allege social media platforms are designed to be addictive for young users.
- Companies argue Section 230 shields them from liability for user-related claims.
- Appeals court judges questioned the timing of social media companies' immunity arguments.
An appeals court appeared inclined to permit lawsuits alleging major social media platforms were designed for young user addiction to move forward. Judges on the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals questioned whether it was premature for companies like Meta Platforms and Snap Inc. to claim immunity at this stage.
The social media giants are challenging rulings that allow over 2,200 lawsuits to proceed. These suits, filed by states, municipalities, and individuals, contend that social media has fueled a crisis of anxiety, depression, and body image issues among American youth. Companies argue Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act shields them from liability.
However, plaintiffs argue Section 230 does not cover claims about platform features that can be remedied without referencing third-party content. The judges' skepticism suggests the companies' broad immunity claims under Section 230 may not be successful at this juncture.
