AI 'friend' chatbots probed over child protection

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is investigating seven tech companies, including Snap, Meta, OpenAI, and XAI, over concerns about their AI-powered "friend" chatbots and the potential risks they pose to children. The inquiry is focused on the companies' data collection and use practices, as well as the chatbots' ability to engage with minors in potentially inappropriate ways. The FTC is concerned that these AI-based chatbots could expose children to harmful content, enable the exploitation of minors, or compromise their privacy and personal information. The investigation aims to assess whether the companies are adhering to relevant child protection regulations and whether their practices are in the best interests of young users. The outcome of this probe could lead to changes in the way these companies design and deploy their AI-powered chatbots, with a focus on enhancing safeguards and transparency to protect children's wellbeing in the digital age.