Microsoft Project Artemis Looks to Detect Sex Predators in Video Game Chats

Microsoft says it has developed a technique to detect online predators who try to prepare children for sexual purposes by using the chat function in multiplayer video games.

The tech company that created the Xbox gaming system announced on Thursday that it was sharing the tool with non-profit organizations and other gaming and messaging service developers.

Nicknamed "Project Artemis", the tool automatically scans text-based conversations and rates them on the possibility that the user is trying to sexually abuse them. Human intermediaries are then able to review flagged conversations to determine where they should report to law enforcement.

The technology was developed by an engineering team led by Dartmouth College digital forensics expert Honey Farid. Microsoft worked with manufacturers of Farid and Making services such as Kick and the popular game Roblox. It will be distributed free from Friday through anti-trafficking group Thorne.