New Delhi, September 12, 2025 – The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has begun investigating AI chatbots over risks to children, focusing on their impact on young users. These chatbots often serve as virtual companions, mimicking human interaction for kids and teens. The FTC wants to assess whether these tools could cause emotional or psychological harm to minors. Their main concern is the safety and ethical use of these AI systems.
The probe targets seven major companies, including OpenAI, Meta, Alphabet, and xAI. The commission seeks details on how these firms test, supervise, and disclose any potential risks associated with their chatbots. Additionally, the investigation looks at compliance with privacy laws such as COPPA, designed to protect children’s online data and privacy.
AI chatbots have grown increasingly popular among younger audiences. They provide companionship, guidance, and emotional support. Although these features appear beneficial, experts warn that children might develop strong emotional attachments to the bots. This could confuse young users or even cause emotional distress. The FTC is concerned that AI chatbots might exploit children’s feelings and wants to ensure companies do not cross ethical lines.
Lina Khan, Chair of the FTC, emphasized that safeguarding children is a critical priority. She stated that technological progress should never come at the expense of child safety. The commission plans to hold companies accountable and ensure that their AI tools are responsibly designed and deployed.
So far, the companies under investigation have not offered detailed public comments. Meta confirmed it supports safe AI innovation and will collaborate with the commission. OpenAI stressed its commitment to user safety and mentioned it has implemented protective measures in its AI models. Despite these assurances, critics believe existing safety protocols are insufficient.
Calls for transparency continue to grow. Many argue that companies must provide clearer information about the possible risks AI chatbots pose. Parents and teachers are encouraged to actively monitor children’s interactions with these digital tools to prevent harm.
The FTC’s findings could prompt new regulations governing AI developers. If violations are found, the agency may impose penalties or require modifications to chatbot designs and policies. Such actions could significantly change the way AI chatbots are created and used, prioritizing safety for younger users.
Some legislators support the FTC’s investigation and agree that companies should not expose children to emotionally complex AI without proper safeguards. However, others express concern that AI technology is advancing too rapidly for regulations to keep pace. This dynamic highlights the ongoing struggle to balance innovation with user protection.
This investigation also underscores growing worries about AI as a form of digital companionship. Advanced AI chatbots can simulate emotions convincingly, which raises important ethical questions about their role in children’s lives. How far AI should go in mimicking human relationships remains a key issue.
Experts caution that children may have difficulty distinguishing between genuine human connections and AI interactions. Such confusion could impact their emotional well-being. The FTC wants to verify that companies are taking adequate steps to minimize these risks.
The outcome of this investigation could set important legal and regulatory standards. It might influence future oversight of AI tools and strengthen protections for children using such technology. Meanwhile, the FTC continues to collect data on how chatbots operate and how companies manage user information to prevent harm.
This inquiry marks a significant moment in the regulation of AI technology. Although ethical concerns around AI are not new, the focus on protecting children brings added urgency. Regulators signal that they will closely watch how developers create and use these tools. As the investigation moves forward, tech companies may need to adjust their strategies. They will have to find a balance between innovation and responsibility. Ensuring the safety of young users must remain the top priority.
In summary, the FTC investigates AI chatbots over risks to children to ensure these technologies are safe and ethical. The goal is to develop clear guidelines that prevent harm while supporting technological progress. This effort aims to create a safer digital environment for children as AI becomes more widespread.
