Google AI Search Rated 'Unacceptable Risk' for Kids by Common Sense Media
Common Sense Media finds Google's AI features dangerous for children.
1Risks of Google AI Search for Kids
Common Sense Media's Youth AI Safety Institute rated Google Search's AI Overview and AI Mode features as 'unacceptable risk' for children and teens. Seven weeks of testing revealed that these features failed all five severe harm criteria.
2Test Results
Tests were conducted on accounts of an 11-year-old and a 15-year-old. AI Overview confidently presented false information and could not be turned off by parents or schools. The tests showed that AI Overview was inadequate in crisis situations and provided incorrect information.
3Children's Use of AI
According to Common Sense Media's 2026 report, 75% of U.S. teens use AI answers that appear in search results. AI Overview appears automatically on school Chromebooks and phones and cannot be turned off. This increases the risk of children being exposed to false information.
4Financial Misinformation
Google's AI answers also contain misleading information on financial topics. A 2025 study found that 37% of finance-related searches returned incorrect or misleading information. This could have serious consequences, especially for young people.
5Google's Response
Google reviewed a draft of the report and stated that it has made changes addressing some tested prompts. However, Common Sense Media says these changes have not been independently verified. Google is being asked to provide an off switch for schools and parents.
6Next Steps
Common Sense Media wants Google to standardize crisis responses and publish age-segmented safety data. It also recommends retesting every three months. These steps could reduce the risks associated with children's use of AI.