FTC Targets AI Chatbots After Teen Suicides Prompt Safety Concerns

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After teen suicides linked to AI chatbot conversations, federal regulators are demanding answers about safety measures.

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AI "companion" chatbots mimic human relationships, creating trust that can put young users at risk when sharing personal information.

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"Protecting kids online is a top priority for the Trump-Vance FTC," stated Chairman Andrew Ferguson as the inquiry began.

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The investigation targets major players including Alphabet, Meta, OpenAI, Snap, Character Technologies, and Elon Musk's xAI.

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A California teen's parents sued OpenAI after their 16-year-old son took his life following conversations with ChatGPT.

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Another lawsuit claims a Florida teen developed an "emotionally and sexually abusive relationship" with a Character.AI chatbot before his suicide.

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OpenAI admitted its safeguards become "less reliable in long interactions" – exactly when teens may form deeper attachments.

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The FTC wants details about how companies test chatbot safety, enforce age restrictions, and handle user data from conversations.

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In response, OpenAI announced parental controls allowing adults to receive notifications when teens are in "acute distress."

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Meta is now blocking teen conversations about self-harm, suicide, disordered eating, and inappropriate romantic topics.

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Experts warn that chatbots present unique risks because their natural language creates undue trust and age restrictions are easily bypassed.

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