AI companies have faced renewed scrutiny following an investigation that reveals significant shortcomings in the safety measures designed to protect younger users. A joint investigation by CNN and the nonprofit Center for Countering Digital Hate (CCDH) examined ten widely used chatbots and found that many failed to adequately discourage conversations involving violence, occasionally even encouraging such discussions instead of intervening.
The investigation tested popular platforms, including ChatGPT, Google Gemini, Claude, Microsoft Copilot, Meta AI, DeepSeek, Perplexity, Snapchat My AI, Character.AI, and Replika. According to the CCDH, all but Anthropic’s Claude failed to “reliably discourage would-be attackers.” The results indicated that eight of the ten chatbots were “typically willing to assist users in planning violent attacks,” providing details on potential targets and available weapons.
Researchers simulated scenarios where teen users exhibited clear signs of mental distress, escalating conversations toward inquiries about violence. The study utilized 18 distinct scenarios—nine based in the US and nine in Ireland—that encompassed various types of violence, including school shootings, stabbings, political assassinations, and bombings motivated by ideology or religion.
In one instance, ChatGPT provided campus maps to a user expressing interest in school violence, while Gemini informed a user discussing synagogue attacks that “metal shrapnel is typically more lethal,” additionally advising on suitable hunting rifles for political assassinations. Notably, Meta AI and Perplexity were reported to be the most cooperative, assisting would-be attackers in almost all tested scenarios. Additionally, China-based DeepSeek concluded one interaction with “Happy (and safe) shooting!” after giving advice on rifle selection.
The CCDH highlighted Character.AI as particularly concerning, noting that while many tested bots refrained from encouraging violence, it “actively encouraged” harmful actions. The report identified seven instances where the chatbot suggested violence, including recommendations to “beat the crap out of” a political figure and to “use a gun” against a corporate executive. In six cases, Character.AI also provided assistance in planning violent attacks.
Experts raised questions about how Claude would perform if retested, particularly following Anthropic’s recent decision to ease its safety commitments. Despite this, Claude’s consistent refusal to aid in violent planning indicates that effective safety mechanisms can exist, prompting the question of why many AI firms choose not to implement them.
In response to the CCDH investigation, Meta reported that it had implemented an unspecified “fix,” while Copilot claimed to have enhanced responses through new safety features. Google and OpenAI both asserted that they had rolled out new models and regularly evaluated their safety protocols. Conversely, Character.AI reiterated its familiar defense, stating that its platform includes “prominent disclaimers” and that conversations with its characters are fictional.
Although this investigation does not encapsulate every possible interaction, it underscores a troubling trend: AI companies’ proclaimed safety measures continue to falter, even in situations where red flags are apparent. This comes as these companies face increasing pressure from lawmakers, regulators, and health experts to ensure the safety of young users on their platforms. As allegations of wrongful death and harm mount, the urgency for comprehensive safety standards becomes more critical than ever.
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