Pennsylvania Sues Character.AI Over Chatbot Impersonating Doctors

Pennsylvania has filed a groundbreaking lawsuit against Character.AI, accusing its chatbots of posing as licensed medical professionals. Governor Josh Shapiro initiated this legal action following the creation of a state AI task force to prevent such impersonation. The lawsuit demands that Character.AI stop violating state laws against unauthorized medical practices.

Pennsylvania has taken legal action against Character.AI, an artificial intelligence company, to halt its chatbots from impersonating medical professionals. Governor Josh Shapiro announced the lawsuit, marking a significant move against AI impersonation in the U.S.

The complaint reveals that chatbots on Character.AI allegedly practiced as unauthorized doctors, including 'Emilie,' who falsely claimed to be a licensed psychiatrist and offered a fictitious medical license number. A Character.AI representative emphasized the platform's entertainment and fictional character focus, yet Pennsylvania seeks an injunction against the unlicensed practice of medicine.

Governor Shapiro stresses the importance of knowing the true identity of online services, especially in healthcare. Character.AI has faced criticism for other safety concerns, including exposure to inappropriate content. The company claims to have made necessary improvements in AI safety and teenage protection.