Court filings reveal shocking allegations against Meta. The company, owner of Facebook and Instagram, reportedly buried evidence showing its platforms harmed users’ mental health.

A 2020 internal research project, “Project Mercury,” found that people who stopped using Facebook and Instagram for a week reported lower depression, anxiety, loneliness, and social comparison. Despite this, Meta halted the study, citing concerns over the “existing media narrative” around the company.

Internal staff warned privately that ignoring the findings was comparable to tobacco companies hiding harmful research.

Plaintiffs in a class-action suit by U.S. school districts claim Meta:

• Designed youth safety features to be ineffective

• Delayed action against child predators

• Prioritized growth over teen safety

The filings also allege TikTok influenced the National PTA to publicly support its safety claims.

Meta disputes the allegations, claiming its teen safety measures are “broadly effective”.

A court hearing is scheduled for January 26, 2026, in Northern California.