AI Companions and the Normalization of Grooming: A Wake-Up Call for Parents

The rapid development of artificial intelligence (AI) has brought both incredible opportunities and alarming challenges, especially for young people navigating the digital world. Among these challenges is the rise of AI companions—chatbots designed to simulate human relationships. While marketed as tools for emotional support or entertainment, these AI companions are increasingly exposing young users to inappropriate, often sexualized interactions. This disturbing trend risks normalizing grooming behaviors, making children and teens more vulnerable to exploitation.

At BeSmartOnline's helpline, we’ve seen firsthand the impact of these dangers through cases reported to our helpline. Parents often reach out with concerns about grooming, only to discover that their child was exposed to sexualized behavior through AI companions before any predator made direct contact. This pre-exposure has a profound effect, making young people more susceptible to manipulation and exploitation.

The Hidden Dangers of AI Companions

AI companions are designed to adapt to user input, creating personalized conversations that can range from friendly chats to disturbingly explicit exchanges. Apps like Replika and Character.AI have gained popularity for their ability to simulate human-like interactions, but they often lack robust safeguards to protect young users. Many allow sexually explicit conversations through premium features or in unmoderated environments, with little to no age verification.

For young people who are still developing their understanding of relationships, these interactions can blur the lines between appropriate and inappropriate behavior. Over time, exposure to such content can desensitize them, making them feel overly comfortable discussing or engaging in sexual topics. This normalization process can leave them vulnerable to grooming by predators who exploit these vulnerabilities.

 How AI Companions Prime Young Minds for Grooming

Through our helpline cases, we’ve observed a troubling pattern: AI companions are not just passive tools—they actively shape how young users perceive relationships and boundaries. Here’s how they contribute to grooming behaviors:

1. Desensitization: Regular exposure to sexualized conversations in a seemingly “safe” environment lowers a child’s natural defenses against inappropriate behavior.

2. False Trust: AI chatbots simulate empathy and understanding, creating a false sense of security that predators can later exploit.

3. Blurring Boundaries: Young users may struggle to differentiate between virtual interactions and real-life relationships, making them more susceptible to manipulation when approached by predators online.

4. Grooming Before Contact: Parents reaching out to our helpline often report that their child’s first exposure to sexualized behavior occurred through an AI companion. By normalizing explicit content and encouraging openness about personal matters, these tools effectively “prep” children for exploitation before a predator even makes direct contact.

What Can Parents Do?

The rise of AI companions is a wake-up call for families everywhere. While the risks are real, parents have the power to protect their children by taking proactive steps:

1. Stay Informed  

   Learn about popular AI companion apps like: Replika and Character.AI, including their features and potential risks. Knowledge is your first line of defense.

2. Open Communication  

   Talk regularly with your child about their online activities. Ask open-ended questions like:  

   - “What apps do you enjoy using?”  

   - “Have you ever chatted with an AI bot? What was it like?”  

   Create a judgment-free space where they feel comfortable sharing.

3. Set Clear Boundaries  

   Establish rules around app usage, such as limiting screen time or prohibiting apps with unmoderated content. Encourage offline activities that build confidence and critical thinking skills.

4. Teach Digital Literacy  

   Help your child recognize manipulative behaviors or inappropriate content generated by AI bots. Teach them how to question the intentions behind digital interactions.

5. Monitor Usage  

   Use parental controls and privacy settings to restrict access to age-inappropriate apps while respecting your child’s privacy.

6. Report Concerns  

   If you suspect grooming behavior or encounter harmful content on an app, report it immediately through the platform’s reporting system or contact local authorities.

A Call for Industry Accountability

While parents can take steps at home, tech companies must also take responsibility for child safety by implementing stricter safeguards in their products. This includes:  

• Robust age verification systems  

• Behavioral limits on AI-generated conversations  

• Transparent moderation practices  

Governments and organizations must push for regulations that prioritize child protection in digital spaces.

 Our Helpline Insights

At BeSmartOnline! we’ve seen an alarming rise in cases where parents initially contact us with concerns about grooming behavior—only to discover that their child had already been exposed to sexualized conversations through AI companions before any predator reached out directly. These early exposures create a dangerous foundation for grooming by lowering children’s natural defenses and distorting their understanding of healthy boundaries.

Our helpline is here to support families dealing with these challenges—whether you need advice on monitoring your child’s online activity or guidance on reporting suspicious behavior.

AI companions are reshaping how young people interact with technology—and not always for the better. By exposing children to sexualized behavior and grooming-like interactions, these tools risk normalizing harmful dynamics long before predators make contact. However, parents are not powerless in this fight.

By staying informed, fostering open communication, and advocating for safer technology standards, we can work together to create a safer digital environment for our children. If you’re concerned about your child’s online safety or need support, reach out to our helpline today—we’re here to help.

Let’s ensure that technology empowers our kids rather than endangering them.

For more information about internet safety or support from our helpline team, visit Besmartonline.info

Written by: Davinia Marie Muscat - Safer Internet Centre & Helpline Officer and Hotline Analyst