UK PM Vows to Regulate AI Chatbots Like Social Media Platforms

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has announced that his government is set to introduce stricter regulations on AI chatbots, likening them to social media platforms in terms of their impact on children’s online safety. The new measures aim to bring AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants under the same scrutiny as social media companies when it comes to safeguarding minors from inappropriate content and preventing online exploitation. Sunak has stated that no online platform will be given a “free pass” in this regard, suggesting that even tech giants will be held accountable for ensuring the safety of children online. The move is seen as a response to growing concerns over the potential risks posed by AI-powered chatbots, which are increasingly being used in areas such as customer service and mental health support. As part of the new regulations, tech companies will be required to implement robust age verification systems and provide clear guidelines on how they use data collected from children online. The government’s plans are also expected to include stricter penalties for non-compliance, with fines potentially reaching millions of pounds for companies that fail to meet safety standards. Sunak has vowed to ensure that the new regulations will be effective in protecting children online, stating that “no child should be exposed to harm or exploitation while using these technologies”.