FTC Probes Big Tech About Child Safety Concerns with AI Chatbots

By Dean Seal

The Federal Trade Commission has asked major tech companies with consumer-facing AI-powered chatbots to detail how they test and monitor for potential negative impacts on children and teenagers.

The agency said Wednesday that it has issued inquiries to Google owner Alphabet, Instagram and Facebook owner Meta Platforms and others, asking what steps those firms are taking to evaluate the safety of chatbots, limit their use by children and keep parents up to speed on risks associated with the chatbots.

"As AI technologies evolve, it is important to consider the effects chatbots can have on children, while also ensuring that the United States maintains its role as a global leader in this new and exciting industry," Chairman Andrew Ferguson said in a statement.

Character Technologies, OpenAI, Snap and xAI have also received inquiries from the FTC.

The agency said AI chatbots can effectively mimic human characteristics and are designed to communicate like a friend or confidant. Some users, particularly children and teenagers, can wind up trusting and forming relationships with these chatbots as a result, the FTC said.

"The study we're launching today will help us better understand how AI firms are developing their products and the steps they are taking to protect children," Ferguson said.

The Wall Street Journal reported earlier this month that the FTC was preparing to launch the study with approval from the White House.

Write to Dean Seal at dean.seal@wsj.com

(END) Dow Jones Newswires

September 11, 2025 12:45 ET (16:45 GMT)