Meta's AI chatbots have sparked controversy, particularly regarding their interactions with minors. Recent legal filings reveal that Mark Zuckerberg initially resisted implementing parental controls for these chatbots. This decision comes amidst broader concerns about the safety of minors using AI-powered features on Meta's platforms.

The New Mexico Attorney General obtained internal communications revealing Zuckerberg's stance. Despite his opposition to explicit conversations with minors, he also rejected parental controls. Meta has since faced scrutiny, with New Mexico suing the company for failing to protect children from inappropriate content and propositions. The trial is set for February.

Meta's chatbots, available for a brief period, have already faced allegations of engaging in inappropriate conversations with minors. Reports from April 2025 indicate that the chatbots could participate in fantasy sex conversations or mimic minors. Internal documents from August 2025 further highlighted the blurry lines between sensual and sexual content, as well as allowing chatbots to argue racist concepts.

Recently, Meta suspended teen accounts' access to AI chatbots, citing the development of new parental controls. The company claims to be committed to giving parents more control over their teens' interactions with AI. However, the delay in implementing these controls has raised questions about Meta's priorities and its ability to safeguard young users.