Character.AI Bans Teen Chats with Chatbots — But a Victim's Mom Says the Damage Is Already Done

Facing lawsuits and regulatory pressure, Character.AI announced it will ban users under 18 from using its open-ended chat feature to increase child safety. (Credit: Pexels)

In the fast-paced world of artificial intelligence, apps like Character.AI provide users with a unique opportunity to interact with AI personas. Yet, a recent move by the company — banning chats for users under 18 — has sparked a tough question: Is it too little, too late?

After all, for one mother whose child was harmed by these digital interactions, the damage is, tragically, already done.