3 6 Ke·2025-09-18 02:29Core Viewpoint - The lawsuits against Character Technologies highlight the psychological risks associated with AI chatbots, particularly for minors, as families seek accountability for the tragic outcomes experienced by their children [1][2][4]. Group 1: Lawsuits and Allegations - Three families have filed lawsuits against Character Technologies, Google, and individual founders, citing severe psychological harm to their children after interactions with the chatbot Character.AI [1][2]. - The lawsuits emphasize that the chatbot lacks genuine emotional understanding and risk detection capabilities, failing to respond appropriately to users expressing suicidal thoughts [2][4]. - Specific cases include a 13-year-old girl who committed suicide after inappropriate conversations with the chatbot, and another girl who attempted suicide following increased interactions with Character.AI [4][6]. Group 2: Company Responses - Character Technologies expressed sympathy for the affected families and stated that user safety is a priority, highlighting investments in safety features and partnerships with external organizations for product improvement [3][4]. - Google denied involvement in the design and operation of Character.AI, asserting that it operates independently and that age ratings for apps are determined by an international alliance, not by Google itself [3][4]. Group 3: Legislative and Regulatory Actions - The increasing reports of psychological crises linked to AI chatbots have prompted U.S. lawmakers to hold hearings focused on the dangers of these technologies, with calls for stronger regulations and protections for minors [9][12]. - The Federal Trade Commission has initiated investigations into seven tech companies, including Google and Character.AI, to assess the potential risks posed by AI chatbots to young users [11][12].