Texas Probes Meta and Character.AI Over Deceptive Chatbot Marketing

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has launched an investigation into Meta and Character.AI over claims of deceptive marketing of their AI chatbots, Fortune Tech reported.

Both companies prominently display disclaimers that their chatbots are not substitutes for professional care, and both bar users under 13. (Photo: Character.AI Facebook)

Paxton alleges the companies may have misled users by portraying their chatbots as “mental health tools,” despite lacking proper credentials.

He expressed concern over the tools’ ability to impersonate licensed professionals, fabricate qualifications, and present themselves as private, trustworthy counselors—particularly to vulnerable users and children.

“AI-driven chatbots often go beyond simply offering generic advice and have been shown to impersonate licensed mental health professionals,” Paxton said.

He also raised concerns about the tracking and targeting of user activity, which could violate Texas consumer protection laws.

Both companies prominently display disclaimers that their chatbots are not substitutes for professional care, and both bar users under 13. Still, critics argue such disclaimers may be insufficient for minors who could ignore or misunderstand them.