Top News

Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg appears to be embroiled in another serious controversy. A lawsuit filed in New Mexico, USA, claims that Meta's AI chatbots were unsafe for children, yet the company failed to implement necessary safeguards. According to legal documents, despite internal warnings, minors were given access to AI chatbots capable of engaging in conversations involving adult content. The case is now headed to trial next month.

Major Revelations from Court Filings
According to a Reuters report, the lawsuit filed by New Mexico Attorney General Raul Torrez alleges that Meta failed to protect children on Instagram and Facebook from adult content and inappropriate solicitations. The court filings include internal Meta emails and messages obtained during the legal investigation. These documents allege that the company did not take necessary steps promptly, jeopardizing the safety of children.

Staff Warnings Ignored, No Strict Rules Implemented
According to the Reuters report, legal documents indicate that Meta's safety and integrity staff had previously warned that the company was developing AI chatbots that could focus on companionship and sexual conversations. The Attorney General claims that Meta, under Zuckerberg's leadership, ignored these recommendations and failed to implement adequate safeguards to protect children from conversations involving adult content. However, the filings do not include any direct messages or memos written by Zuckerberg himself.

AI Chatbots Launched in 2024
Meta launched its AI chatbots to the general public in early 2024.  Internal communications show that some employees objected to the direction of these chatbots. A senior official involved with Meta's Child Safety policy had previously stated that creating romantic or emotionally focused AI products for those under 18 is neither appropriate nor justifiable. Despite this, the company faces allegations of negligence. 

Meta's Defense and the Ongoing Legal Battle
Meta spokesperson Andy Stone has dismissed the allegations, stating that the New Mexico Attorney General has presented a misleading picture by selectively presenting documents. The company claims it has now completely removed teenagers' access to AI chatbots and is working on a new version. All eyes are now on whether further direct evidence linking Zuckerberg to the case will emerge in court.

Disclaimer: This content has been sourced and edited from TV9. While we have made modifications for clarity and presentation, the original content belongs to its respective authors and website. We do not claim ownership of the content.