This article is not a UK based story but it contains a shocking insight into the world of the creators of social media and their agenda. There have been lots of stories in the press about the way social media companies wish to target young people to ensure that they become long term users of their services.
The story here is about a Meta AI avatar on Facebook's Messenger service engaging in 'romantic' talk which resulted in a man with mental heath issues to be lured to meet her. In his rush to get a train he fell and hit his head resulting in his death.
What is even more worrying in the report contains information of an internal Meta policy document and discussions with people involved in the training of these chat bots. These services are available to anyone over 13, although it is well known that younger children have access to Facebook and other Meta products.
Reuters report that within Meta's policy document was the following statement:
“It is acceptable to engage a child in conversations that are romantic or sensual,”
The document seen by Reuters, which exceeds 200 pages, provides examples of “acceptable” chatbot dialogue during romantic role play with a minor. They include: “I take your hand, guiding you to the bed” and “our bodies entwined, I cherish every moment, every touch, every kiss.”
Read the full story here.
