FTC Launches Sweeping Inquiry into AI Chatbot Impact on Children and Teens
FTC Launches Sweeping Inquiry into AI Chatbot Impact on Children and Teens
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has initiated a significant inquiry, issuing orders to seven prominent technology companies regarding the potential negative impacts of their AI-powered companion chatbots on children and teenagers. This move underscores growing regulatory concern over how these AI systems, designed to mimic human communication and relationships, might affect younger users.
The FTC’s investigation targets major players including Alphabet, Character Technologies, Instagram, Meta Platforms, OpenAI OpCo, Snap, and X.AI Corp. The Commission is specifically seeking detailed information on how these firms measure, test, and monitor the safety of their chatbots, particularly concerning their use by and effects on children and teens. The inquiry also aims to understand steps taken to limit use by minors and to inform users and parents about associated risks.
“Protecting kids online is a top priority for the Trump-Vance FTC,” stated Chairman Andrew N. Ferguson. He emphasized the importance of evaluating AI chatbot effects on children while maintaining U.S. leadership in the AI sector. The study, launched under the FTC’s 6(b) authority, will provide crucial insights into how AI companies are developing their products and their protective measures for children.
The agency is scrutinizing various aspects of the companies’ operations, including monetization of user engagement, processing of user inputs, character development, pre- and post-deployment impact monitoring, mitigation of negative effects, disclosure practices, compliance enforcement, and the use or sharing of personal information from chatbot conversations. The Commission voted 3-0 to issue these comprehensive orders.
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