FTC 6(b) orders to AI companion chatbot providers (study of effects on children and teens)

Summary

On September 11, 2025, the FTC voted 3-0 to issue orders under section 6(b) of the FTC Act to seven companies offering consumer-facing AI chatbots: Alphabet, Character Technologies, Instagram, Meta Platforms, OpenAI OpCo, Snap and X.AI. The study asks how the firms measure, test and monitor negative effects of chatbots acting as companions, especially on children and teens, how they limit minors' use, inform users and parents of risks, and comply with the COPPA Rule. A 6(b) study has no specific law enforcement purpose.

Key dates

1. September 11, 2025Takes effect
2. September 11, 2025Issued
3. October 16, 2026Checked against sources
4. October 21, 2026Checked against sources

Developments are added when the record is reviewed. Next review: January 15, 2027.

Evidence

Each passage is quoted from its source. The quoted passages are re-checked against the live pages every month.

1. Agency issues 6(b) orders to seven companies that operate consumer-facing AI chatbots September 11, 2025

   Supports: Date; seven companies

   The Federal Trade Commission is issuing orders to seven companies that provide consumer-facing AI-powered chatbots seeking information on how these firms measure, test, and monitor potentially negative impacts of this technology on children and teens.

   Supports: Focus on children and teens

   which authorizes the Commission to conduct wide-ranging studies that do not have a specific law enforcement purpose.

   Supports: Nature of a 6(b) study

   The Commission voted 3-0 to issue the 6(b) orders to the seven companies.

   Supports: Vote

   FTC Launches Inquiry into AI Chatbots Acting as Companions Federal Trade Commission Primary source