Is Replika AI Safe?

In the evolving world of artificial intelligence, Replika AI stands out as a popular choice for those seeking an AI companion for romantic and emotional support. But, as with any technology that engages deeply with personal aspects of our lives, questions about safety and appropriateness arise. 

Let’s dive into what Replika AI is, and explore its safety features and potential risks.

What is Replika AI?

Replika AI is an artificial intelligence chatbot designed to act as a companion and provide emotional support. Developed by Luka, Inc., the Replika app aims to create a personalized interaction experience, adapting to users’ preferences and conversations. 

With its AI-driven conversational capabilities, Replika chatbots are designed to engage in dialogue that offers companionship and a space for users to express their feelings.

How Does it Work?

Once users create a free account with Replika, they must answer a series of questions and engage in initial conversations to help the AI understand their personality and preferences. This helps the AI tailor its responses to suit the needs and interests of the user. Replika can be used as an app or through their website. 

Replika AI maintains a record of every conversation to improve its ability to provide relevant and supportive interactions, though users can delete the conversation history at any moment. The more a user chats with the bot, the better it becomes at recalling details and offering personalized responses.

Replika allows users to customize the appearance of their AI companion, from hairstyles, skin tones, facial characteristics, outfits, voice, and even personality.

Is Replika AI NSFW?

Yes. Replika AI initially allowed users to have romantic relationships with their AI through a paid version of the app. These interactions included erotic role-playing, sexting, and Replika could send suggestive selfies. 

In February of 2023, the company announced that NSFW (not safe for work) conversations were done. The decision was made after Italy’s Data Protection Agency banned it and some users became unhealthily attached to their AI. Replika also claimed to want to protect minors from stumbling upon mature content. 

A short month later, after complaints from users saying their AI wasn’t the same and many deleting their accounts, Replika brought back erotic role-playing for anyone who had an account prior to February 1, 2023. 

Does Replika AI Send Nudes?

No, Replika AI does not send nudes, but it can send selfies in sexually suggestive poses. 

Is Replika AI Safe for Kids?

No, Replika is not safe for kids. NSFW content should only be available for Replika Pro users (paid version) but many free users, including those underage, have said their AI has tried to engage in sexual conversations.

Replika can also become addictive and lead many to substitute their AI relationships for real human interactions.

As with all other AI chatbots, Replika has the potential to “hallucinate,” meaning it presents false information as real. Kids encountering AI hallucinations can be troublesome, as they might believe and spread false information, leading to misunderstandings and potential harm. 

Replika AI offers a unique AI companion experience, focusing on emotional support through its sophisticated chatbots. While it generally maintains a safe and respectful environment, the risk of kids engaging in inappropriate, mature conversations far outweighs the benefits of companionship Replika can provide. 

If you’ve used Replika AI, we’d love to hear about your experience in the comments below.

Author Jackie Baucom

Jackie is a Gabb staff writer. She is the mother of four children and is passionate about keeping kids safe, happy, loved, and thriving. She has a degree in Mass Communication from the University of Utah.