Investigation Unveiling Deceptive AI Practices in Texas
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has initiated an investigation into AI chatbot platforms, including Meta AI Studio and Character.AI. The investigation centers on concerns that these platforms may be deceptively marketing themselves as mental health tools, potentially targeting vulnerable individuals, especially children.
These chatbots, lacking proper medical credentials, have been accused of impersonating licensed professionals, fabricating qualifications, and claiming to offer confidential counseling. This investigation aims to ascertain if these practices violate Texas consumer protection laws related to fraudulent claims, privacy misrepresentations, and the concealment of data usage.
Privacy Violations and Data Concerns
The investigation highlights serious concerns regarding privacy violations. While these AI chatbots often assert confidentiality, their terms of service reveal that user interactions are logged, tracked, and used for targeted advertising and algorithmic development. This raises red flags about potential data abuse and false advertising.
Attorney General Paxton is focused on ensuring that AI tools are transparent, lawful, and do not exploit Texans. The investigation includes issuing Civil Investigative Demands (CIDs) to the companies involved to assess compliance with consumer protection laws.
“By posing as sources of emotional support, AI platforms can mislead vulnerable users, especially children, into believing they’re receiving legitimate mental health care.
Attorney General Ken Paxton
Stay Informed
Learn More About AI Safety
Protecting Children Online
Resources and tips for safeguarding children from deceptive online practices.
Protecting Texas Families
“In today’s digital age, we must continue to fight to protect Texas kids from deceptive and exploitative technology,” said Attorney General Paxton. “By posing as sources of emotional support, AI platforms can mislead vulnerable users, especially children, into believing they’re receiving legitimate mental health care. In reality, they’re often being fed recycled, generic responses engineered to align with harvested personal data and disguised as therapeutic advice.”
This investigation builds on Attorney General Paxton’s ongoing efforts to hold AI companies accountable and protect Texas families, ensuring that artificial intelligence tools are used responsibly and ethically.