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Lessons from US courts on social media liability
US courts have begun holding social media platforms more accountable for online harms. The Los Angeles County Superior Court’s verdict in KGM v. Meta et al. is described as potentially watershed for intermediary liability, while New Mexico’s case against Meta resulted in a $375 million penalty for endangering children online. The piece also discusses broader implications for safe-harbor exemptions and potential lessons for India.
Why It Matters
These rulings could shift how platforms are perceived—toward product- or service-liability rather than merely intermediary liability—affecting global debates on safety, regulation, and exemptions. They may prompt re-evaluation of intermediary protections in other jurisdictions, including India.
Timeline
2 Events
State of New Mexico v. Meta Platforms, Inc. penalty
April 19, 2026
In State of New Mexico v. Meta Platforms, Inc, the New Mexico Department of Justice secured a $375 million penalty against Meta for endangering children by exposing them to sexually explicit material and to paedophiles, illustrating a successful state-level action against platforms for online harms.
KGM v. Meta et al. verdict (Los Angeles County Superior Court)
April 19, 2026
The Los Angeles County Superior Court delivered a verdict in KGM v. Meta et al. The article describes this verdict as potentially a watershed moment for re-examining intermediary liability, noting that courts have signaled social media platforms can be treated as more than passive providers when they actively promote content to users. The discussion emphasizes a shift toward product- or service-liability, including potential responsibility for harms stemming from addiction, explicit content affecting minors, and sexual predators, and raises questions about how safe-harbor exemptions are applied in practice.