FTC launches investigation into safety of AI systems including Anthropic and OpenAI

The Federal Trade Commission announced a broad investigation into the safety of artificial-intelligence systems, targeting companies such as Anthropic and OpenAI, a senior FTC official told ABC News on Wednesday. The inquiry will examine allegations that AI firms may have engaged in unfair or deceptive conduct that could harm consumers, and the agency may issue formal requests for information from the companies involved. The FTC has authority to enforce consumer-protection statutes and can impose civil penalties for violations.

The probe follows heightened scrutiny of AI technologies, with industry leaders and lawmakers calling for regulatory measures to address potential risks. President Donald Trump recently hosted a meeting with technology executives at the White House, during which participants signed a voluntary set of principles intended to guide industry self-regulation. Speaker Mike Johnson described the agreement as a "statement of principles" that outlines expected standards for the sector.

The FTC’s investigation comes amid broader debates over how to manage the rapid development of AI and its impact on society.