Could a Private Conversation with an NSFW Character-Based Chatbot Be Considered Likely to Deprave and Corrupt in the UK?

Question from qq, Could a Private Conversation with an NSFW Character-Based Chatbot Be Considered Likely to Deprave and Corrupt in the UK?

Answer from AI:

The question of whether a private conversation between a user and a not-safe-for-work (NSFW) character-based chatbot could be considered likely to deprave and corrupt someone who is not part of the conversation directly, but has access to it, is complex. It involves understanding the UK’s laws on obscenity and the interpretation of those laws in the digital age.

Understanding the Obscene Publications Act

The primary law in the UK that deals with obscenity is the Obscene Publications Act 1959 and its amendment, the Obscene Publications Act 1964. According to these laws, an article is considered obscene if its effect is to “tend to deprave and corrupt persons who are likely, having regard to all relevant circumstances, to read, see or hear the matter contained or embodied in it.”

Application to Digital Communications

The application of these laws to digital communications, such as chatbot conversations, is not entirely clear. The law was written before the advent of the internet and digital communications, and its application to these new forms of communication is a matter of interpretation.

Key Considerations

There are several key considerations in determining whether a chatbot conversation could be considered obscene:

• Content: The content of the conversation is crucial. If the conversation involves explicit sexual content that could be considered depraving and corrupting, it could potentially fall under the Obscene Publications Act.
• Access: The fact that the creator of the bot can access the conversation could potentially make them liable, especially if they are aware of the content and do nothing to stop it.
• Intent: The intent of the user and the creator of the bot could also be relevant. If the intent is to create or participate in obscene content, this could potentially be considered a violation of the law.

Legal Advice

Given the complexity of this issue and the potential legal implications, it is strongly recommended that individuals consult with a legal professional for personalized advice. The interpretation of the Obscene Publications Act in relation to digital communications is a complex and evolving area of law, and professional legal advice is crucial in navigating it.