AI chatbot firms face stricter regulation in online safety laws protecting children in the UK

The UK government is tightening its grip on online safety with new regulations aimed at AI chatbots, closing a loophole that previously exempted them from strict compliance. In a move underscored by concerns over illegal content, Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced that leading chatbots, including OpenAI's ChatGPT, Google's Gemini, and Microsoft Copilot, will now be subject to the country's Online Safety Act. This decision follows a strong backlash against Elon Musk's X platform, which faced criticism for the explicit content generated by its chatbot, Grok. The Prime Minister stated that these chatbots must adhere to 'illegal content duties' or risk facing substantial penalties, including fines and potential bans. The announcement comes in the wake of investigations by the European Commission into the dissemination of inappropriate material on X, particularly concerning children. Starmer emphasized the urgency of these measures, declaring, "We are closing loopholes that put children at risk, and laying the groundwork for further action." The new regulations will include establishing minimum age limits for social media users, curbing harmful features like infinite scrolling, and restricting children's engagement with AI chatbots and VPNs. A notable provision mandates social media companies to retain user data after a child's death unless it is unrelated to their online activity. This initiative aims to bolster children's safety and assist parents in navigating the complexities of social media. Lex Brown, head of TMT at Simmons & Simmons, remarked that this shift in regulatory approach reflects a growing recognition of the need to address the inherent risks posed by technology itself, rather than just its applications. He noted that the rapid evolution of generative AI calls for regulations that keep pace with technological advancements. Increasing scrutiny over minors' access to social media has become a global trend, with Australia setting a precedent by banning social media access for individuals under 16. Following suit, several European nations, including Spain, France, and Finland, are also considering similar restrictions. The UK government is currently reviewing proposals to restrict social media usage for under-16s, as the legislative process advances through Parliament.