Instagram CEO Shockingly Denies Users Can Be 'Addicted' Despite 2,325 Lawsuits

Instagram CEO's Stunning Testimony Contradicts Growing Legal Evidence

Instagram CEO Adam Mosseri testified that he does not believe users can be "clinically addicted" to the social media platform. This bombshell statement comes as over 2,325 lawsuits are consolidated in federal court, alleging that Instagram and other social media platforms are deliberately designed to be addictive and harmful to young users [1].

Scientific Evidence Contradicts CEO's Claims

Mosseri's testimony directly contradicts mounting scientific evidence. A study published in the Journal of Behavioral Addictions may have found that a certain percentage of participants exhibited Instagram use that was considered high risk for addiction, but without a specific citation, this cannot be confirmed. Research published in Scientific Reports may have investigated the overestimation of addictive use among frequent Instagram users and its impact on self-control and guilt, but without a specific citation, this cannot be confirmed.

Medical experts argue that social media platforms are designed to be addictive, comparing them to "digital casinos" and addictive drugs. Studies indicate clear links between social media use and mental health issues including depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, eating disorders, and self-harm, particularly among young users [2].

Devastating Impact on America's Youth Revealed

According to [Source], approximately 10% of Americans are estimated to be addicted to social media, which translates to roughly [Accurate Calculation] million Americans as of [Year]. Teenagers between 14 and 17 are particularly vulnerable, with girls more likely to develop depression, anxiety, and body image problems due to social media exposure.

The documented symptoms and conditions caused by problematic social media use include depression, anxiety, eating disorders, self-harm, suicidal thoughts and actions, body dysmorphia, sleep difficulties, social anxiety, and loneliness. Current lawsuits are being filed on behalf of individuals who became addicted to social media before age 21.

Internal Documents Expose Company Knowledge

Perhaps most damaging to Meta's defense, internal company documents revealed that the company knew Instagram could have negative effects on teenagers, especially girls. These internal communications showed employees actually comparing Instagram to a "drug," directly contradicting Mosseri's testimony about the platform's non-addictive nature.

Courts Reject Meta's Defense Attempts

The legal momentum continues to build against Meta. According to [Source], Judge Carolyn B. Kuhl denied Meta's motions to exclude the plaintiffs' expert witnesses in the social media addiction lawsuits. According to [Source], Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers ruled that Meta must face social media addiction lawsuits from over 30 U.S. states and determined that certain platform features, such as image filters, could be treated like products for liability purposes.

High-Stakes Trials and Settlements on the Horizon

The legal landscape is rapidly evolving, with TikTok and Snap having settled some lawsuits for undisclosed sums, while litigation continues. As of February 12, 2026, Meta's Mark Zuckerberg and YouTube CEO Neil Mohan are scheduled to testify on February 18 and 19, respectively, regarding the social media addiction lawsuits. A crucial federal bellwether trial is scheduled for June in Oakland, California.

Meta continues to dispute claims that their products deliberately harm children, citing safeguards they have added and arguing they are not liable for content posted by third parties. However, a Meta spokesperson's statement that the company "strongly disagrees with the allegations" rings hollow against the mounting evidence.

What This Means for Millions of Affected Families

As these bellwether trials proceed, their outcomes will likely shape the settlement path forward for victims. If plaintiffs successfully prove that millions of children have been harmed by social media, it could create new legal avenues for lawsuits against tech companies and potentially result in billions in damages.

The stark contrast between Mosseri's testimony denying addiction potential and the scientific evidence, internal documents, and thousands of affected families tells a compelling story that courts will ultimately decide.