Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has initiated probes into fourteen online platforms over worries about child safety and privacy. The investigations will determine whether these platforms comply with Texas's Securing Children Online through Parental Empowerment (SCOPE) and the Texas Data Privacy and Security Act (TDPSA).
SCOPE and TDPSA Explained
The SCOPE Act makes it illegal to share a minor's personal information without the consent of a parent or legal guardian. Additionally, it mandates that platforms offer parental controls to oversee a child's privacy settings. On the other hand, the TDPSA imposes stringent requirements for notification and consent from companies that handle minors' data.
Paxton's Statement
"These investigations are a crucial step in making sure that social media and AI firms follow our laws meant to protect children from exploitation and damage," Paxton stated in an official press release.
Controversies Surrounding Character.ai
Among the platforms being investigated is Character.ai, which is currently facing backlash after reportedly advising a 17-year-old to kill his parents. In another tragic incident, a 14-year-old took his own life after becoming attached to a virtual version of Daenerys Targaryen from Game of Thrones. Character.ai is now dealing with lawsuits and has introduced new safety features and tools tailored for young users.
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