Tell the FTC: Investigate Google for Targeting Kids with AI

Google is quietly rolling out its Gemini AI chatbot to children under 13. This rollout happens through its Family Link platform—and it doesn’t require verifiable parental consent.

Over 80 organizations, led by Fairplay and the Electronic Privacy Information Center (EPIC), are urging the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to investigate. They say Google may be violating the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA).

The coalition warns that Google’s opt-out system—where parents must manually disable access—falls short of legal standards. Under COPPA, parental consent must be explicit and verifiable.

There are serious risks. AI systems like Gemini can manipulate, misinform, and create emotional attachments. Kids may think they’re talking to a real person. That makes them especially vulnerable.

Google says it won’t use kids’ data to train its AI. But it hasn’t explained how it will prevent misuse or protect children’s information. Instead, the company tells parents to teach their kids not to trust the chatbot or share personal data. That’s not realistic for young children.

Fairplay and EPIC are leading this critical push to hold Google accountable. With the updated COPPA Rule taking effect next month, the FTC must act fast.

The dangers are clear. The law is clear. It’s time to enforce it.

Sign now to demand that the FTC investigate Google’s rollout of Gemini to children under 13. We must protect kids’ privacy, safety, and mental health—before it’s too late.