Hi there --

If you’ve spent any time around teenagers recently, it’s clear that we have a widespread problem on our hands. Kids are hooked on social media – and sometimes, it can have devastating consequences.

Researchers have been looking at the effects of social media’s addicting draw and found convincing evidence that heavy social media use tends to make teenagers feel worse about their bodies and can provoke anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts.

But what’s even more shocking is that Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, has known about this problem for years, according to documents leaked by an internal whistleblower in 2021 [1]. And they’ve chosen to do virtually nothing about it.

Finally, officials are stepping up to take action: A group of 41 states and Washington, DC are now suing Meta to hold the company accountable for the youth mental health crisis caused by the addictive nature of Facebook and Instagram. [2] Here at Accountable Tech, we couldn’t agree more. That’s why we’re asking you today to co-sign our letter of support to these attorneys general to let them know we approve of – and appreciate – their bold action.

Thank the attorneys general

Accountable Tech has sounded the alarm on this issue for years. In 2021, we launched Stop Instagram for Kids, and with the voices of people like you, we convinced Meta to stop developing a version of Instagram for children under the age of 13.

Friend – we can take on Big Tech and win. Now, we need to support these attorneys general and show them we have their backs. Big Tech has massive lobbying power and cash to throw around. Meanwhile, kids struggle with deliberate design choices made by Big Tech that keep them addicted to social media and online platforms. Add your name to our letter of support to these attorneys general to let them know we support their bold action.

Without accountability, Big Tech will continue to profit from kids' declining mental health. Let's ensure our children's future isn't compromised by the addictive grips of social media.

Thanks for being with us,

Nicole Gill
Co-founder and Executive Director
Accountable Tech

1. The Verge: Facebook’s whistleblower report confirms what researchers have known for years
2. Reuters: Meta's Instagram linked to depression, anxiety, insomnia in kids - US states' lawsuit

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