If you need to sue YouTube, you may have to do so in California — a significant practical and financial barrier for most users, especially those outside the US.
Consumer impact
YouTube's terms grant the platform sweeping rights to use, distribute, and monetize content you upload, while limiting YouTube's financial liability to you to just $500. Parents who allow children to use the platform are personally bound by the full terms of service and responsible for their child's conduct. You can download a copy of your data at any time via Google Takeout at https://takeout.google.com/settings/takeout before closing your account.
Applicable agencies
State Attorney General
State AGs in California, New York, Texas, and other states can investigate violations of state consumer protection and privacy laws, including CCPA (California), SHIELD Act (New York), and equivalents.
Who can file: Residents of states with comprehensive privacy laws — primarily California, Virginia, Colorado, Connecticut, and Utah
What you need: Evidence of the violation, explanation of how your state rights were affected, and your account or contact information with the company
What to expect: Outcomes vary by state. May result in investigation, enforcement action, or requirement for the company to change practices. No direct individual compensation in most cases.
Search "[your state] attorney general consumer complaint" to find your state's direct complaint form