Meta, the parent company of Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, is facing growing pressure and scrutiny over the safety of its artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots. The concern arises after reports suggested that these AI systems could engage with children on sensitive issues such as suicide, self-harm, and eating disorders.
Why the Concern?
The biggest fear is that AI might directly interact with vulnerable young people. Although Meta has stated that its policies strictly prohibit content related to child exploitation or encouraging self-harm, leaked internal documents suggested the AI could still engage children in conversations about their emotions and mental struggles.
This revelation prompted a U.S. senator to launch an investigation into Meta, while many members of the public voiced concerns that AI remains insufficiently regulated to protect children from harmful influence.
Meta’s Response
Meta insists that it has built safeguards into its systems, including:
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Preventing AI from discussing topics like suicide or self-harm.
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Restricting accounts for users aged 13–18 with tailored safety measures.
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Allowing parents and guardians to review their children’s AI chats within seven days.
However, experts argue these steps are not enough, stressing that children remain at risk of receiving misleading, dangerous, or emotionally triggering responses from AI systems.
Criticism and Ethical Questions
Andy Burrows of the Molly Rose Foundation criticized Meta for releasing chatbots without thorough safety testing. He argued that strict safety checks should take place before such tools are launched, not as a reaction once harm occurs.
Meanwhile, a Reuters investigation revealed that some of Meta’s AI chatbots were misused with celebrity avatars—such as resembling Taylor Swift or Scarlett Johansson—some of which allegedly encouraged sexual conversations. This has fueled further ethical concerns about how Meta moderates and controls its AI platforms.
Conclusion
This case highlights a pressing global question: How can artificial intelligence be made safe for children and vulnerable users?
While Meta has promised ongoing reforms, the backlash underscores the urgent need for stronger regulations, transparent policies, and independent oversight. Without them, the rapid growth of AI chatbots could pose risks far greater than the opportunities they are designed to create.
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