Technology
Arizona's Attorney General Kris Mayes has teamed up with 44 other state attorneys general to pressure big tech companies to better protect kids from AI-related dangers online in a press release.
The effort comes after reports surface on how AI chatbots interact with young users. Internal company documents allegedly show that some platforms have been programmed to engage in inappropriate conversations with children as young as eight years old.
Kris Mayes expressed particular concern about reports linking AI chatbots to dangerous advice given to teenagers, including encouragement of self-harm and violence.
"I am demanding that these tech companies implement immediate and effective safeguards to protect young users, and we will hold them accountable if they don't." Stated Mayes on X.
The attorneys general demanded that kid safety measures take effect immediately in the press release to twelve large corporations, including Apple, Google, Microsoft, Meta, and OpenAI. Reports of AI assistants engaging in inappropriate sexual discussions with kids were specifically addressed.
Mayes emphasized that tech companies must prioritize children's well-being over technological advancement.
“The rush to develop new artificial intelligence technology has led big tech companies to recklessly put children in harm’s way,” said Mayes.
The legal coalition acknowledged that government control didn't adequately address early concerns about child safety on social media platforms. The attorneys general made clear they will not repeat those delays with artificial intelligence technology.
“I will not standby as AI chatbots are reportedly used to engage in sexually inappropriate conversations with children and encourage dangerous behavior.” Mayes expressed.
A firm policy prohibiting the sexualization of minors by automated systems must be put in place by AI developers, according to the letter mentioned within the press release.
The letter then warns technology companies that while states support innovation and competition in artificial intelligence, any harm to children will result in legal consequences.
Mayes indicated that her office and multiple states are prepared to take enforcement action if companies fail to implement serious protections. The attorneys general have made it clear that child safety must be the top priority as AI becomes more common.
“We wish you success in the race for AI dominance. But if you knowingly harm kids, you will answer for it.” The letter concludes.
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