FTC Commissioner-Nominee Mark Meador Warns of 'Predatory AI' as 1 in 12 Children Face Online Exploitation Annually

Mark Meador, a nominee for Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Commissioner, has publicly voiced strong concerns regarding the impact of artificial intelligence on young people. In a recent social media post, Meador asserted that "World-class, innovative AI doesn’t mean predatory AI. The American people deserve the truth about the endless experiments Big Tech has been running on vulnerable kids." His statement underscores a growing regulatory focus on the ethical implications of AI technologies, particularly concerning their design and deployment for minors.

Meador, whose nomination to the FTC highlights his commitment to consumer protection and antitrust enforcement, has consistently emphasized the need for greater accountability from technology companies. He has previously likened the tactics of some tech firms to those of tobacco companies, suggesting that claims of "individual choice" can mask efforts to "hook" consumers. His stance aligns with a broader push within the FTC to scrutinize how digital platforms, including those powered by AI, affect the well-being and privacy of children.

Scientific research increasingly supports these regulatory concerns, detailing how AI-driven designs can negatively impact children's mental health. Studies from the American Psychological Association (APA) and the Pontifical Academy of Sciences indicate that algorithms designed to maximize engagement contribute to increased screen time, anxiety, and sleep disorders among young users. These reports highlight the potential for AI systems to foster emotional dependency and expose children to harmful content.

Further research reveals specific vulnerabilities, with AI chatbots potentially providing inappropriate responses to sensitive disclosures and blurring the lines between human and artificial interaction. The Pontifical Academy of Sciences recently reported that AI has been misused to generate child exploitation materials and facilitate online grooming, noting that an alarming one in twelve children globally becomes a victim of sexual abuse or exploitation each year. This underscores the urgent need for robust safeguards against AI's predatory applications.

In response to these escalating concerns, the FTC is actively reviewing its approach to children's online activity, including potential updates to the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA). Regulatory bodies and advocacy groups are calling for stricter age verification measures and greater transparency from AI developers regarding data collection and algorithmic design. The goal is to ensure that AI systems are developed with a child-first safety approach, prioritizing well-being over engagement metrics.

Policymakers and experts advocate for comprehensive AI literacy education and stronger legal frameworks to protect children from manipulative design features. The ongoing dialogue emphasizes that AI, while offering potential benefits, must be rigorously tested and regulated to prevent unintended harms and exploitation. This collective effort seeks to balance technological innovation with the fundamental right of children to a safe and healthy digital environment.