AUSTIN, TX – Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has launched an investigation into several social media companies to assess their compliance with state laws designed to protect the privacy and safety of minors, his office announced on Thursday.
The investigation, conducted under the Texas Data Privacy and Security Act and the Securing Children Online through Parental Empowerment (SCOPE) Act, will examine the practices of platforms including Character.AI, Reddit, Instagram, and Discord, among others.
The SCOPE Act prohibits companies from sharing, disclosing, or selling minors’ personally identifiable information without explicit consent from a parent or legal guardian. It also sets regulations for interactions between minors and artificial intelligence products to enhance safeguards against potential exploitation.
“Technology companies are on notice that my office is vigorously enforcing Texas’s strong data privacy laws,” Paxton stated. “These investigations are a critical step toward ensuring social media and AI companies comply with laws designed to protect children from exploitation and harm.”
The Attorney General’s announcement underscores growing concerns over the safety of online platforms and the use of artificial intelligence in interacting with younger users. The investigation seeks to address potential violations and ensure companies adhere to legal protections established to prioritize the wellbeing of minors.
This investigation is part of broader efforts by the state to strengthen accountability for technology companies operating in Texas. Further updates will be provided as the inquiry progresses.
