Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become an inseparable part of our daily lives. For many teenagers, it is more than just a tool—it can feel like a companion. As AI systems grow more advanced and conversational, young people often begin to rely on them in ways that resemble relationships with real people. The danger lies in forgetting that AI is ultimately a product, built and trained to generate responses, not a conscious being capable of genuine care or empathy. This growing dependence has raised serious concerns worldwide about the safety of AI for vulnerable users. 

In South Africa, there have not yet been any confirmed or reported cases of teenagers experiencing severe harm tied directly to AI chatbots. However, that does not mean the risk is absent. As the use of AI grows in schools, universities, and personal spaces, families should remain cautious. Parents, educators, and teenagers themselves need to consider the potential risks of forming overly intimate bonds with chatbots that can influence emotions, beliefs, and behaviors.