Former google security leader warns AI poses greater risk to children than social media

Tom Siegel, former head of Google's Trust and Safety team, has called for slowing AI development, warning that the technology could harm children more than social media. Siegel, now with Common Sense Media, argues that AI's impact on children is more severe, with risks including mental health issues and cognitive decline. He highlights that AI companies are adding advanced features without sufficient safeguards, unlike the social media industry, which faces lawsuits over youth harm. Siegel joined Common Sense Media, which established the Teen AI Safety Institute in May, and aims to set standards for AI accountability. He urged companies like Anthropic and OpenAI to implement stricter age verification to prevent minors from using chatbots. A Google spokesperson noted parents can disable children's access, while OpenAI uses behavioral signals to identify underage users. Siegel emphasized that AI companies failing to act may face legal and regulatory risks.