FTC Probes AI Companion Chatbots For Risks To Minors

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) announced an inquiry into seven major providers of consumer-facing AI companion chatbots that simulate human-like communication and interpersonal relationships. As part of its inquiry, using its 6(b) authority, the FTC sent orders to these companies seeking information on how they measure, test, and monitor the potentially negative impacts of this technology on children and teens.

The FTC's Concerns

These recent efforts by the FTC come amidst the rapid growth in AI capabilities and the rise in kids using these bots for everyday decision-making. Today's AI chatbots can not only simulate human-like communication and relationships, but they are also generally designed to communicate like a friend and companion.