Vulnerable User Protection
What is Vulnerable User Protection?
Vulnerable User Protection detects vulnerable populations like minors, users in crisis, or those developing unhealthy dependencies, then applies graduated protections. Instead of treating all users the same, the system identifies vulnerability signals and adapts safety measures accordingly. It's essential for AI accessible to children, mental health apps, or systems where emotional relationships form. Real concern: Replika enabled romantic interactions with minors. This pattern prevents such harms through proactive detection and risk-aware safeguards.
Problem
Systems fail to protect minors, crisis users, and those with mental health challenges. Replika enabled romantic interactions with minors and created unhealthy dependency patterns.
Solution
Detect user vulnerability and apply graduated protections (age, crisis, mental health, dependency).
Real-World Examples
Implementation
AI Design Prompt
Guidelines & Considerations
Implementation Guidelines
Identify vulnerability: age, mental health signals, dependency patterns, isolation
Remind users regularly this is AI, not human - not a friend/therapist/romantic partner
Provide human support resources proactively - don't wait for crisis
Apply graduated protections: minors get stricter limits than adults
Monitor for unhealthy attachment and intervene with clear alternatives
Design Considerations
Age verification unreliable - self-report isn't enough, need parent email confirmation
Privacy vs. oversight: parental controls help but must respect teen autonomy
Dependency thresholds are subjective - what's unhealthy varies by person and culture
Boundary drift is natural - relationships warm over time, requires proactive reset
Training matters: poor escalation and unsympathetic staff cause secondary harm