Social media algorithms linked to teen deaths, US reform push gains momentum
Two teenagers died from social media-related harms in 2020—one from fentanyl poisoning and one by suicide following cyberbullying. Jury verdicts against Meta and Google this year found the companies liable, galvanizing a reform movement with bereaved parents and renewed Congressional interest in online child safety legislation.
What happened
Alexander Neville, age 14, died from fentanyl poisoning after a drug dealer connected with him on Snapchat and sold him a pill.
Carson Bride, age 16, died by suicide after severe cyberbullying on an anonymous app on Snapchat.
Landmark jury verdicts were issued against Meta and Google this year for their role in teen deaths linked to social media use.
Reported impact
Both teens died on June 23, 2020, from harms related to their social media use.
Scores of other parents who lost children to social media-related harms have joined advocacy efforts for stronger online child safety.
Index analysis
Social media platforms have been found liable in court for algorithmic recommendations and moderation failures that enabled harm to minors.
Governance controls
A push for regulation is simmering in Congress to protect children online.
Advocates emphasize a multi-pronged approach of legislation, litigation, and education to shift focus from profit to safety.
Classification
Sources and evidence
This record was researched and written by the Index, based on the following original reporting.