Government Pressed on AI Chatbot Regulation Following Suicide Concerns

While government efforts have focused on protecting children online, a senator warns adults are also at risk of being manipulated by chatbots.

A "virtual friend" is seen on the screen of an iPhone in Arlington, Va., on April 30, 2020. Olivier Douliery/AFP via Getty Images

Greens Senator David Shoebridge has used this week’s Senate estimates to question what steps the federal government is taking to protect adults from the dangers of artificial intelligence (AI).

While much of the public debate has centred around protecting children and teenagers online, much less has been said about the topic of potential dangers to adults.