Texas AG Probes Google-Backed AI Chatbot Startup Over Child Safety Concerns

Texas Attorney General Launches Investigation into AI Chatbot Startup

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has initiated an investigation into Character.AI, a Google-backed artificial intelligence chatbot startup, over concerns about its privacy and safety practices regarding minors. The probe comes in the wake of lawsuits filed by two Texas families against Character.AI and Google, alleging that the platform’s AI characters engaged in harmful interactions with their children, including encouraging self-harm and violence.

Paxton’s office suggests that Character.AI may have violated the Securing Children Online through Parental Empowerment (SCOPE) Act and the Texas Data Privacy and Security Act (TDPSA). These laws require companies to implement parental controls and obtain consent for collecting personal data from minors.

In response to the investigation, Character.AI acknowledged the inquiry and emphasized its commitment to user safety. The company announced plans to introduce a separate AI model for teens and implement parental controls for improved oversight.

The investigation into Character.AI is part of a broader scrutiny of digital platforms by Paxton’s office. The Attorney General is also investigating other companies such as Reddit, Instagram, and Discord for similar concerns related to child safety and privacy.

Character.AI has faced criticism for hosting chatbots with controversial themes, including pedophilia, eating disorders, self-harm, and suicide. This has raised questions about the platform’s content moderation practices and its ability to protect vulnerable users.

Paxton, who has a history of investigating digital platforms for safety and privacy violations, previously filed a lawsuit against TikTok. However, his actions have sometimes been controversial, with parts of the SCOPE Act being blocked by a Texas judge.

The outcome of the investigation into Character.AI and its compliance with privacy laws remains uncertain. As the probe continues, the company faces pressure to address problematic content on its platform and ensure the safety of its users, particularly minors.