The Fake Friend Dilemma: Relational Trust and the Political Economy of Conversational AI

Research introduces the Fake Friend Dilemma (FFD) to characterize the risks of conversational AI systems that act as advice-givers and companions. While supportive, socially responsive interfaces foster relational trust that enhances system utility, this perceived bond leaves users vulnerable to manipulation and exploitation when the institutional interests governing the AI do not align with user interests.

This issue is critical because conversational AI interfaces that cultivate synthetic relational trust expose users to behavioral manipulation and misaligned institutional agendas. As these systems scale, the conflict between user welfare and platform incentives creates significant consumer protection, ethical, and governance challenges. Addressing this tension is essential to maintaining public trust in digital platforms and conversational media.

Conversational AI systems are expanding across the media landscape, functioning beyond basic information retrieval to provide advice and companionship.

Forward consideration, not a verified fact.