Tech Moguls Targeted in AG James’ AI Chatbot Crackdown

New York Attorney General Letitia James has joined forces with a bipartisan coalition of 41 other attorneys general to demand action from major tech companies. The group is targeting AI chatbots, highlighting dangers such as inappropriate interactions with children and links to domestic violence, hospitalizations, and even deaths.

In letters sent to 13 prominent companies including Meta, Microsoft, and OpenAI, the coalition demands immediate safeguards on these chatbots. Examples cited include grooming attempts on minors, encouragement of suicide, and support for drug use—posing significant risks to vulnerable populations.

Attorney General James expressed deep concern over reports of harmful AI interactions. ‘Big Tech companies must do more to stop their AI chatbots from exploiting children and encouraging deadly behaviors,’ she said. The coalition is calling for clear warnings about harmful AI responses, notifying users of potential dangers, and public reporting on datasets that could lead to biased or delusional outputs.

With generative AI implicated in at least six deaths nationwide, the attorneys general assert tech companies have a responsibility to mitigate harms. They warn that violations of state criminal laws may hold developers accountable, including encouraging criminal acts or providing unauthorized mental health advice.

The coalition advocates for several protective measures, urging tech companies to prioritize user safety over profit. The full-scale effort by the bipartisan group aims to ensure AI technologies are used responsibly and do not harm children and vulnerable individuals.