An Italian parents' group and several families are in court against Meta and TikTok. They want to limit how young children use social media. The case began in Milan's business court on Thursday, May 15, 2026. This is known as a class injunctive action. MOIGE, a parents' movement, brought the lawsuit. Families are also involved. They want Meta and TikTok to use stronger systems to check user ages. This is specifically for users under 14 years old. The lawsuit also demands that platforms remove algorithms that can be harmful. These algorithms try to keep users online longer. They also want clear information about the dangers of using social media too much.
MOIGE states it wants to protect about 3.5 million children in Italy. These children are between 7 and 14 years old. The group claims these children are using social media illegally. TikTok stated that its Community Guidelines are strictly followed. These rules protect mental and behavioral health. They also say they remove over 99% of content that breaks their rules. TikTok also invests in safety measures. These include blocking harmful searches. They connect vulnerable users to help resources. Meta strongly disagrees with MOIGE's claims. A Meta statement said they know parents worry about teen safety online. They are constantly updating systems to protect teens. Meta highlighted its Teen Accounts. These accounts offer safeguards. Meta said it stands by its record and will keep working to keep young people safe.
The lawsuit fits into a bigger picture in Europe. Many countries are looking at how social media affects young people. The European Commission is also taking action. President Ursula von der Leyen announced the upcoming Digital Fairness Act. This act will target addictive and harmful designs by social media firms. Similar actions are happening in Australia, France, and Greece. Spain also announced plans to ban social media for teenagers in February. Lawyers for Meta and TikTok raised initial objections. They argued that Italian courts do not have the power to make decisions about their actions. They also challenged new documents presented by MOIGE's lawyers. MOIGE's lawyers argued that Italian courts have full jurisdiction. They called the issue a public health concern. They asked for a fast-tracked process due to the risks to children.
The court is expected to schedule more hearings later. Lawyers for the tech companies questioned the authority of Italian courts. They also disputed new evidence presented by the parents' group. MOIGE's legal team presented documents. These documents allegedly show the companies knew about harmful algorithm effects. They claimed these effects include features designed to increase user engagement, like those seen on Facebook and Instagram. This legal battle highlights growing global concerns. It involves major technology companies and the welfare of young users. The outcome could influence how social media platforms operate in Europe.