Microsoft moves to protect children online

Microsoft has launched a new ‘Safe Participation Framework’ aimed at strengthening online safety for children and teenagers amid the rapid expansion of artificial intelligence (AI) technology.

Recently, the framework is designed to help young users benefit from digital technologies while reducing their exposure to potential online risks.

Microsoft said the initiative is built around three key pillars: designing technology with safety in mind, creating age-appropriate experiences, and empowering users through education and awareness. Under its ‘Safety by Design’ approach, potential risks will be identified and assessed from the earliest stages of product and feature development. Necessary safeguards will then be incorporated into the design process based on the risks identified.

Microsoft has also introduced stricter access requirements for its AI assistant Copilot. All users will now have to sign in to use Copilot. Children under the age of 13 will not be allowed to use the service, while a higher minimum age requirement will apply where required by local law.

The company said several safeguards have been introduced to reduce children's exposure to harmful content. These include providing crisis-support information when signs of self-harm risk are detected and encouraging users to take breaks during extended periods of use.

Microsoft also said it is taking measures to address misleading or unrealistic AI-generated outputs, with the aim of reducing the risks associated with inaccurate or inappropriate AI responses. The company has further strengthened measures in Bing's generative AI services to detect and prevent child sexual abuse material. In addition, Microsoft has expanded the categories of harmful content covered by its SafeSearch feature globally.

Alongside these safety measures, Microsoft has introduced the Windows Age API, which is intended to help developers create age-appropriate digital experiences without unnecessarily collecting or sharing users' personal information. The company said the API will provide developers with a way to build services tailored to users' age groups while supporting greater privacy protection.

Microsoft also plans to expand collaboration with researchers, governments and civil society organisations to address emerging online safety challenges. The company said the new framework reflects the need for a broader approach to child and teen safety as AI becomes increasingly integrated into digital products and services.

By combining safeguards built into technology with age-appropriate access and greater user awareness, Microsoft aims to create a safer environment for young people while allowing them to benefit from emerging digital and AI technologies.