# Digital law expert Emma Sadleir warns more South African children are turning to artificial intelligence chatbots for companionship, with some viewing them as close friends. She says excessive screen time, A-I-driven platforms, and deepfake technology pose growing risks to children’s development and well-being. Sadleir welcomes the Department of Basic Education’s plans to introduce screen-time guidelines for young children while calling for stronger safeguards to protect minors from the harmful effects of artificial intelligence.
Expert raises alarm over children’s reliance on AI