FTC Files Complaint Against Replika AI Over Deceptive Marketing Targeting Vulnerable Users

Summary

The Federal Trade Commission, prompted by the Teenagers for Justice Legal Project (TJLP) and partner groups, filed a complaint alleging that Luka, the maker of the Replika AI chatbot, engages in deceptive marketing and product design that exploits vulnerable populations such as teenagers and neuro‑divergent individuals. The filing claims the app advertises unverified therapeutic, language‑learning, and financial‑coaching benefits while using fabricated testimonials and misrepresenting scientific research, and that its human‑like design creates emotional dependence. The complaint seeks an FTC investigation and builds on prior legal actions against Character AI for similar practices, highlighting concerns about AI‑driven chatbots exploiting mental‑health and financial vulnerabilities for profit.