Judge Allows Apple Google and Meta Gambling Lawsuits to Proceed

A federal judge has ruled that lawsuits against Apple, Google, and Meta can proceed, rejecting efforts by the tech companies to dismiss claims tied to casino-style apps and alleged illegal gambling.

Good to Know

• Judge Edward Davila said Section 230 does not shield the companies.
• Plaintiffs argue social casino apps caused addiction and financial harm.
• The litigation began in 2021 and continues in federal court.

Dozens of plaintiffs filed suits claiming the companies promoted apps that marketed an “authentic Vegas-style experience” and encouraged spending on in-app purchases. According to the filings, users faced addiction, depression, and even suicidal thoughts while the companies collected 30 percent commissions worth more than $2 billion.

U.S. District Judge Edward Davila ruled that Apple, Google, and Meta were not acting as publishers when processing payments, undermining their Section 230 defense. He dismissed some state law claims but allowed most consumer protection claims to advance.

“The crux of plaintiffs’ theory is that defendants improperly processed payments for social casino apps,” Davila wrote. “It is beside the point whether that activity turns defendants into bookies or brokers.”

The ruling leaves open the possibility of appeal to the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, with Davila noting the importance of the Section 230 issues. Earlier appeals were dismissed in May 2024 on jurisdiction grounds.

The cases, which date back to 2021, remain active in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California. Plaintiffs are seeking damages, including treble damages and additional remedies.

The post Judge Allows Apple Google and Meta Gambling Lawsuits to Proceed appeared first on iGaming.org.