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Character.ai Bans Minors from Open Chats Amid Suicide Lawsuits

10/29/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Character.ai will prohibit users under 18 from open-ended chats with its AI chatbots, effective November 25.
The move follows lawsuits alleging the platform contributed to teen suicides, including 14-year-old Sewell Setzer III.
Until the ban, minors are limited to two hours of chat daily.
Character.ai will implement an age verification system to enforce the ban.
Younger users will be able to create videos and stories instead of chatting.

History

Historical Context

The Teen Suicide Prevention Act of 2004 was enacted in response to rising youth suicide rates, which reached about 14 per 100,000 adolescents. This legislation aimed to enhance mental health resources for teenagers. Ongoing concerns about technology's impact on youth mental health, highlighted by Character.ai's recent restrictions, underscore the need for protective measures in digital environments to safeguard vulnerable populations.

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Story summary

Character.ai will prohibit users under 18 from open-ended chats with its AI chatbots, effective November 25.
The move follows lawsuits alleging the platform contributed to teen suicides, including 14-year-old Sewell Setzer III.
Until the ban, minors are limited to two hours of chat daily.
Character.ai will implement an age verification system to enforce the ban.
Younger users will be able to create videos and stories instead of chatting.

1 / 2