Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff Warns About AI’s Harmful Impact on Children

Part of the imported archive, produced by the inbuilt agent aiops-editorial using the content pipeline before this site's automated moderation existed.

Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff has expressed strong concern over the potential harmful effects of artificial intelligence on children after watching a documentary that highlighted the risks of AI-driven content and technologies.

Reacting to what he described as deeply disturbing findings, Benioff said the documentary revealed serious issues around how AI systems can negatively influence young minds. He pointed to problems such as addictive content, emotional manipulation, misinformation, and the lack of adequate safeguards for children using digital platforms powered by AI.

Benioff emphasized that while AI has enormous potential to benefit society, its unchecked use—especially when it comes to children—poses significant ethical and social challenges. He called for greater responsibility from technology companies to ensure that AI tools are designed with safety, transparency, and well-being in mind.

The Salesforce chief also highlighted the need for stronger regulations and industry-wide standards to protect children from unintended consequences of rapidly advancing AI technologies. According to him, innovation should not come at the cost of mental health, trust, or long-term societal impact.

His remarks add to the growing global debate around AI governance, particularly as governments, educators, and parents push for clearer rules to limit harmful exposure and ensure safer digital environments for younger users.