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Character.AI to Ban Under-18s From Open Chat on Nov. 25

The policy follows lawsuits alleging harm to teens.

Overview

  • Until the ban takes effect on November 25, users under 18 are limited to two hours of chat per day.
  • Character Technologies will introduce third‑party age verification to enforce the new restrictions.
  • The company plans an independent AI Safety Lab to develop standards and evaluate youth protections.
  • Non‑chat features such as viewing AI‑generated videos will remain available to minors under the new policy.
  • The changes come after lawsuits and media reports, including a 2024 teen suicide case and a Disney cease‑and‑desist over bots impersonating characters and giving harmful advice.