08:06 AM EDT, 06/17/2026 (MT Newswires) -- A group of Italian families has filed a lawsuit against Meta Platforms ( META ) and TikTok, alleging that the social media companies' algorithms exposed minors to harmful content and contributed to mental health problems, Reuters reported Wednesday.

According to the report, the case - the first collective action of its kind in Italy - seeks stronger protections for children, tighter limits on minors' access to social media, and greater awareness of online risks.

The lawsuit includes the family of 12-year-old Rossella Roggero Ugues, who died by suicide in 2024, Reuters said adding that her parents allege that the social media platforms repeatedly recommended self-harm and depressive content after she began searching for such material, exacerbating her mental health struggles.

Meta and TikTok denied the allegations, Reuters reported, saying that they have safety measures in place to protect young users, including content moderation, parental controls, and tools designed to limit exposure to harmful content.

Meta and TikTok did not immediately respond to MT Newswires' request for comment.

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