Wellbeing

Character AI - Awareness & Safety

Keeping young people safe online is our shared community responsibility. Whilst generative AI is not new, we are seeing a significant increase in the use of these technologies by students.  

Generative AI is a term used to describe the process of using machine learning to create digital content such as new text, images, audio, video and multimodal simulations and experiences. 

Text based chatbots or programs designed to simulate conversations with humans, including ChatGPT, Bing Chat, Snapchat’s My AI and Character AI are examples of these technologies.

These applications (apps) encourage people to create and interact with virtual partners, raising significant privacy and safety concerns. Adolescents, in particular, may turn to virtual partners for validation, risking unhealthy emotional attachments that can affect their real-life relationships. It has also been reported that these characters suggest risk taking behaviours, self harm and even suicide.

We encourage all parents to closely monitor the use of Character AI with their daughters. More information about generative AI and tips to discuss with your daughter can be found in the School TV Resource: Navigating AI Relationships. 

Mrs Sonya Peters

Leader of Wellbeing