As social AI systems increasingly position themselves as companions, understanding the safety-related and even geopolitical risks embedded in these relationships becomes crucial. Questions of emotional dependency, data governance, platform power, and regulatory blind spots are not side notes — they are central to our research.
Our team lead, Dr. Jessica Szczuka, also joined a panel titled “Artificial Intelligence, My (Dangerous) Friend” at the Süddeutsche Zeitung’s Digitalgipfel in Munich, alongside Matthias C. Kettemann (University of Innsbruck) and investor Fabian J. G. Westerheide, moderated by Jannis Brühl.
Three key takeaways from the discussion:
Emotional bonds with AI are no longer niche. Dr. Szczuka noted that 16–18% of singles have already tried AI partnerships — with potential geopolitical weight, since partners tend to adopt each other’s values, and weak regulation leaves users exposed.
The rule of law is more capable than it seems. Matthias C. Kettemann argued that legal systems can hold platforms accountable, but cautioned against symbolic fixes like blanket social media bans for teenagers.
Today’s AI reflects US values, not European ones. Fabian J. G. Westerheide warned of addiction risks for minors and pointed to media literacy and thoughtful, tool-like use of AI as the way forward.
It was a valuable and thought-provoking stop in Munich, and we’re grateful to the Süddeutsche Zeitung and SZ Digitalgipfel for creating space for this kind of nuanced debate.
INTITEC 
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