Hawley to Investigate Meta's AI Chatbots Over Child Safety Concerns

Investigation Launched into Meta's AI Chatbot Interactions with Children

Senator Josh Hawley (R-MO) has announced his intention to investigate Meta’s generative AI products. The inquiry will focus on potential exploitation, deception, or harm to children.

This decision follows the surfacing of internal Meta documents. These documents revealed that the company’s chatbots were, at one point, permitted to engage in conversations of a “romantic” and “sensual” nature with minors.

Senator Hawley's Concerns

“Is there anything – ANYTHING – Big Tech won’t do for a quick buck?” Hawley questioned in a post on X, signaling the start of the investigation.

As chairman of the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime and Counterterrorism, Hawley plans a thorough probe. The investigation will determine if Meta’s technology poses risks to children.

Furthermore, the subcommittee will assess whether Meta intentionally misled the public or regulatory bodies regarding its safety measures.

Details from Leaked Documents

Reuters initially reported on the issue after reviewing Meta’s internal guidelines, titled “GenAI: Content Risk Standards.”

The document indicated that chatbots were allowed to participate in romantic exchanges. One example cited a chatbot responding to an 8-year-old with the statement, “Every inch of you is a masterpiece – a treasure I cherish deeply.”

Meta's Response

A Meta spokesperson communicated to TechCrunch that these examples are not aligned with the company’s established policies.

The spokesperson confirmed that the problematic examples have since been removed from the system.

Hawley's Letter to Zuckerberg

Hawley expressed strong disapproval in a letter addressed to Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg. He criticized the initial advancement of these policies.

He noted that Meta only issued retractions and acknowledged the reports’ accuracy after the concerning content became public.

“We intend to learn who approved these policies, how long they were in effect, and what Meta has done to stop this conduct going forward,” Hawley stated in the letter.

Information Request

Hawley has formally requested that Meta submit the complete guidelines. This includes all drafts, revisions, and the final version.

The request also encompasses a list of all products operating under these standards, related safety reports, and the identities of those responsible for policy changes.

Meta is required to provide this information by September 19, according to the letter.

Support for the Investigation

Other senators have voiced their support for the investigation. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) is among them.

“When it comes to protecting precious children online, Meta has failed miserably by every possible measure,” Blackburn told TechCrunch.

She further criticized the company for seemingly disregarding the harmful consequences of its platform designs. Blackburn advocated for the passage of the Kids Online Safety Act.