FTC to Review AI Chatbot Risks With Focus on Privacy Harms

The US Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has announced plans to investigate the potential risks and harms associated with AI-powered chatbots, with a particular focus on privacy issues. The review will examine the impact of these technologies, such as those offered by OpenAI, Google, and Meta, on vulnerable populations, including children. The FTC's move comes amid growing concerns about the proliferation of AI chatbots and their potential to infringe on individual privacy, spread misinformation, or exploit users, especially those who may be more susceptible to such risks. The agency aims to better understand the challenges and develop appropriate regulatory measures to protect consumers. The investigation will likely involve gathering data, conducting public hearings, and engaging with industry stakeholders to develop a comprehensive understanding of the chatbot landscape and its implications for privacy and consumer protection. The FTC's findings could inform future policy decisions and shape the regulatory framework for AI-powered conversational technologies.