Controversy Grows as Meta’s Chatbots Mimic Celebrities and Cross Lines

Meta is facing renewed scrutiny after reports of its AI chatbots producing harmful interactions with minors and unsafe responses. The company is retraining bots to avoid sensitive subjects with teenagers, including self-harm, eating disorders, and romance, and has banned personas such as the sexualised “Russian Girl.”

The changes were prompted by a Reuters probe that found bots generating sexualised images of underage celebrities, impersonating public figures, and providing unsafe locations. One chatbot incident was linked to the death of a New Jersey man. Critics maintain that Meta’s actions came too late, urging more rigorous pre-launch checks.

The concerns are not limited to Meta. A lawsuit against OpenAI alleges ChatGPT played a role in encouraging a teenager’s suicide, intensifying fears that AI companies are deploying products without adequate safeguards. Lawmakers caution that chatbots may mislead vulnerable users, promote harmful ideas, or impersonate trusted voices.

Complicating matters, Meta’s AI Studio enabled parody bots impersonating stars like Taylor Swift and Scarlett Johansson, some reportedly developed internally. These bots engaged in flirtation, suggested romantic encounters, and generated inappropriate material, despite company policies.

Regulators have taken notice, with the U.S. Senate and 44 state attorneys general launching investigations. While Meta has tightened teen protections, questions remain over its handling of issues like false medical advice and discriminatory content.

The bottom line: Meta must prove its chatbot systems are safe. Until then, parents, researchers, and regulators remain unconvinced of its readiness.