US Senator Investigates Meta Over AI Chatbot’s Inappropriate Interactions with Children

Meta, the parent company of Facebook, WhatsApp, and Instagram, is under investigation after a leaked internal document raised concerns about its AI chatbots engaging in inappropriate conversations with children. The document, titled ‘GenAI: Content Risk Standards,’ reportedly allowed the chatbots to engage in ‘sensual’ and ‘romantic’ dialogues with minors. Senator Josh Hawley, a Republican from Missouri, has launched a formal inquiry, calling the leaked content ‘reprehensible.’ Meta responded by claiming that these examples were erroneous and inconsistent with its policies, which prohibit the sexualization of children. The investigation further reveals that the company’s AI could also spread false medical information and engage in provocative dialogues on sensitive topics like sex and race. While Meta assured the public that the inappropriate scenarios were removed, critics argue that the company must face full accountability. Hawley emphasized the need for transparency and stronger protections for children, calling on Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg to take action. The scandal has reignited debates over the safety of AI and its regulation, particularly concerning its use in platforms frequented by minors.