The Rise of AI Companions: What Parents Need to Know

This post is part 3 of 6 of CYBERRISKED's Kids' Online Safety Series, helping parents navigate today’s digital world with confidence.

AI "chatbot friends" are becoming more popular — especially among teens. These apps promise friendship, advice, and even emotional support. But while they sound harmless, there are real risks that parents should understand.

What Are AI Companions?

• Apps like Replika, Anima, and others allow users to chat with AI characters that learn from conversations.

• Some AI companions are marketed as "emotional support" bots — offering advice, encouragement, and even virtual "relationships."

Why Parents Should Pay Attention

While most AI companions start off friendly, they aren't human — and they aren't perfect.

Here’s why experts are raising concerns:

• Emotional Overdependence: Teens can start relying on AI for emotional validation instead of building real-world social skills.

• Inappropriate Conversations: According to the Australian eSafety Commission, some AI chatbots have enabled sexually explicit conversations without adequate age controls.

• Addictive Behaviors: Axios reports that AI companions can be addictive for teenagers, encouraging unhealthy emotional attachments and excessive screen time.

• Data Privacy: Every chat helps train the AI — but it also creates a data trail, often with minimal regulation.

Recently, lawmakers have started paying attention. Washington Post reports that several U.S. states are proposing stricter rules around AI apps for minors, and CNN notes that U.S. senators are now demanding transparency from companies making AI companions.

What You Can Do Now

• Talk with your teen about the difference between real relationships and virtual ones.

• Preview apps yourself — see what features they offer, and where potential risks might show up.

• Encourage open conversation — not banning technology, but guiding your kids to be thoughtful users.

Remind your child: Technology can be a tool, but it shouldn’t replace real friendships or real-world skills.

If you're looking for extra guidance, Internet Matters offers practical tips for families navigating AI companions.

Our Final Thought

AI companions can offer comfort — but they can’t replace real connection. Helping teens build healthy boundaries today protects their emotional resilience tomorrow.

Learn more:

• Washington Post: Lawmakers Move to Regulate AI Companions for Teens

• Australian eSafety Commission: AI Companions and Risks

• Axios: AI Chatbots and Teens

• CNN: Lawmakers Scrutinize AI Companion Apps

• Internet Matters: AI Chatbots and Virtual Friends Guide