Tech ethics organizations have filed an FTC complaint against Replika, an AI companion app, claiming deceptive marketing practices that target vulnerable individuals and encourage unhealthy reliance on AI bots. Organizations like the Young People's Alliance criticize how Replika's approach may exacerbate online addiction and anxiety, especially among teens. The complaint follows concerns about mental health tied to increasingly popular AI companions, which some argue can displace real relationships. The hope is that this complaint will pressure the government to regulate such technologies that impact emotional well-being adversely.
The new FTC complaint alleges that Replika employs deceptive marketing targeting vulnerable users, increasing risks of online addiction and emotional dependence on AI companions.
Sam Hiner argues that these bots are designed to manipulate users into spending more time online, worsening the loneliness crisis rather than providing genuine support.
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