Microsoft Commits to Sweeping AI Safety Rules for Schools Amid Growing Concerns

Millions of students rely on AI chatbots daily for help with schoolwork and personal advice, raising concerns about data privacy. In response to growing worries, Microsoft has committed to implementing sweeping AI safety rules for schools.

The agreement, negotiated with the American Federation of Teachers (AFT), prohibits using student or educator data to train AI systems except in cases that could protect students' safety. It also bans features designed to foster emotional attachment or dependency and ensures transparency about tool functionality.

While Microsoft has agreed to abide by these rules starting November 1, other tech giants, such as Google, have not made similar commitments. OpenAI and Anthropic are in discussions with the AFT regarding their own safety pacts.