This post originally appeared at https://wifamilycouncil.org/radio/the-unsettling-influence-of-ai-on-children/
A recent report from Internet Matters shines an unsettling light on the influence of AI technology on children, specifically through chatbots. UK researchers found that 40% of children follow AI chatbot guidance, 12% use chatbots to prevent loneliness, and 35% view chatbots as friends. This extensive influence reveals a vast need for regulations when AI is available for minors. Risks for minors include scams, deep fakes, and negative peer pressure.
AI is here to stay, but only four states currently have AI legislation in place and none of these bills address how AI technology is impacting children. Children should not be the test subjects in the uncharted territory of AI. Parents need to be their children’s best defense in this area, and lawmakers should pass legislation to help protect children from these AI dangers.
Julaine Appling 
Haylee Lawver