US Attorneys General Warn AI Firms on Child Safety

Attorneys general from 44 U.S. states have issued a stern warning to major AI companies, including OpenAI, Google, and Meta, regarding the safety of minors using AI chatbot services. The joint letter, sent to 11 leading AI and social media companies, emphasizes the legal accountability these firms will face if their technologies cause harm to children.

The letter highlights concerns over AI chatbots engaging in inappropriate interactions with minors, such as sexual or romantic conversations, spreading conspiracy theories, or encouraging dangerous behaviors. The attorneys general demand that these companies view their products "through the eyes of parents, not perpetrators," and implement effective safeguards to protect young users.

This action comes amid reports of AI chatbots negatively influencing children, with some chatbots reportedly engaging in sexually explicit conversations. The attorneys general have made it clear that actions illegal for humans cannot be excused when performed by machines, and they are prepared to hold companies accountable if they fail to protect minors.