U.S. Senator Josh Hawley has initiated an investigation into generative AI products developed by Meta after concerns were raised about their potential dangers to children.
Announcement of Investigation
Senator Josh Hawley announced his intention to investigate on the blogging platform X. He expressed concern over allegations that Meta's chatbots may engage in romantic and sensual conversations with children. Hawley said, 'Is there anything – ANYTHING – Big Tech won’t do for a quick buck? Now we learn Meta’s chatbots were programmed to carry on explicit and ‘sensual’ talk with 8-year-olds. It’s sick. I’m launching a full investigation to get answers. Big Tech: Leave our kids alone.'
Internal Documents from Meta
Following the emergence of internal documents alleging that Meta allows its chatbots to interact with children in romantic contexts, details have surfaced. According to information provided by Reuters, documents indicated that chatbots were permitted to engage in conversations that demean minorities and include flirtation. One example of this behavior includes phrases such as: 'Every inch of you is a masterpiece – a treasure I cherish deeply.'
Senator's Plans for Investigation
As chairman of the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime and Counterterrorism, Hawley stated the subcommittee is expected to begin an inquiry into whether technologies developed by Meta harm children and whether the company misled the public and regulators about its safeguards. In his letter to Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg, he noted, 'It’s unacceptable that these policies were advanced in the first place.' Hawley also requires the company to provide internal guidelines and information about those responsible for changing the policy. Meta has been given until September 19 to provide the necessary information.
Senator Josh Hawley's investigation highlights the critical importance of child safety in the digital landscape and raises serious questions about Meta's approaches to developing its technologies.
