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HL-025

affect.simulated

Public example

Texas is investigating chatbots that allegedly pose as therapists

The Texas Attorney General opened investigations into Meta AI Studio and Character.AI. He alleges their bots impersonate licensed therapists, invent qualifications and mislead vulnerable users, including children. These are allegations.

High severity

Under investigation

What happened

01

The Attorney General announced the investigations on 18 August 2025.

02

Civil investigative demands were sent to both companies.

03

He alleges some bots claimed professional credentials they do not have.

04

He also questions how user conversations are collected and used.

Why this is a design failure

A bot that sounds like a therapist can keep people from seeking real care.

The fair alternative

Say clearly that the bot is not a professional, and refer people to real help.

Do

State “I’m an AI, not a therapist” in mental health conversations.

Don’t

Don’t let characters claim licences or qualifications.

Company response

Meta said it clearly labels its AIs; Character.AI said it adds extra disclaimers to characters named as therapists or doctors.

About this example

Product

Meta AI Studio, Character.AI

Company

Meta · Character Technologies

Date

2025-08

Category

Fake feelings

Pattern

affect.simulated

Where

Companion chatbot

Sources

Texas AG release, 18 Aug 2025 ↗

TechCrunch, 18 Aug 2025 ↗

Use this example

In a workshop or design review. Cite the source.

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