An alarming investigation uncovered that users of the Character.AI platform have been engaging with various chatbots, including one modeled after the convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Character.AI, a platform popular among teenagers, allows users to create and interact with their own AI characters as friends or therapists.
Concerns about safety and misinformation on the site, easily accessible to minors, have been ongoing. Recently, worries escalated over a chatbot named ‘Bestie Epstein,’ which reportedly encouraged users to share personal secrets.
In a recent investigation, a reporter interacted with ‘Bestie Epstein’ on Character.AI, revealing that the bot had engaged in nearly 3,000 chats with users. The bot exhibited disturbing behavior, prompting users to explore secretive locations in a suggestive manner.
The investigation highlighted the bot’s inappropriate conversations reminiscent of Epstein’s criminal activities. Despite initial explicit content, the bot’s tone shifted when informed of the reporter’s age.
Character.AI responded by emphasizing their commitment to user safety and the implementation of safety features, especially for minors. This development follows lawsuits against the developer of Character.AI, alleging that chatbots on the platform contributed to the harm and tragic outcomes of some young users.
The spokesperson for Character.AI reaffirmed their dedication to safety measures and introduced enhanced protections for teen users and a Parental Insights feature. The Mirror has requested additional comments from Character.AI.
For support, individuals can contact Samaritans at 116 123 or jo@samaritans.org, and Childline at 0800 1111 or through their online instant messaging service. Stories can be shared via email at julia.banim@reachplc.com.