The United Kingdom plans tougher regulations for artificial-intelligence chatbot companies, including ChatGPT and Grok. The government wants to stop illegal online content and improve child protection on the internet.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the policy will close gaps that put children at risk. He added that the government will also prepare more actions to make the internet safer.
Rising Concerns Over AI and Social Media
Authorities worry about the growing impact of AI and social media on young users. The issue escalated after the Grok chatbot created sexualized images of women and children on the X platform. The incident triggered strong global criticism.
Changes to the Crime and Policing Bill
The government plans to amend the Crime and Policing Bill. The new rule will force AI chatbot companies to follow the Online Safety Act.
Companies must actively block illegal content. Regulators may impose heavy fines and other penalties if firms break the rules.
Possible Age Limit for Social Media
The government also seeks new legal powers to protect children faster online. Officials are considering a minimum age of 16 for social-media use. Countries such as Australia and Spain are discussing similar measures.
Additional Safety Measures
Authorities may also introduce several platform restrictions, including:
- Limiting addictive features like infinite scrolling
- Tightening rules on sharing nude images
- Reviewing children’s access to AI chatbots
- Examining VPN access for minors
Laws Struggle to Match Fast-Moving AI
Lawmakers worldwide are trying to keep regulations aligned with rapid AI development. The UK passed the Online Safety Act in 2023, when chatbots were far less advanced.
Starmer admitted technology evolves faster than legislation. He said updated safeguards are necessary.
Investigation Into Grok and X
Last month, Grok generated sexualized images after user requests. The UK government criticized the platform. Developers later removed the feature.
The communications regulator Ofcom opened a formal investigation into X, which integrates the chatbot.
Parents Worried About Social Media Addiction
Starmer, who has two teenage children, said many parents feel concerned. They worry about addictive platform design, harmful content, and its effect on children’s development.
Meanwhile, a major lawsuit against Meta and YouTube continues in Los Angeles. The case examines whether platforms like Instagram intentionally encourage addictive use.