BOT Disclosure

BOT Disclosure is the practice of clearly informing users that they’re interacting with a bot not a human being. It’s a safeguard that ensures transparency whenever an AI voice agent or chatbot communicates during a commercial transaction or support interaction. In simple terms, it’s how a bot communicates honestly: “Hi, you're talking to a bot.”

Under California law, this kind of disclosure isn’t optional. The California Bot Disclosure Law (SB-1001) has been in effect since July 2019. It requires any business or individual using a bot to inform persons that the responder is automated.

This applies to automated online accounts that could otherwise create an artificial identity or knowingly deceive the person into thinking they’re speaking with a human.

The intent aligns with existing law that already regulates unfair trade practices under the Federal Trade Commission and state consumer-protection frameworks. In short, if a reasonable person might assume they’re chatting with a real employee, existing law regulates that you must make a proactive disclosure.

Transparency in artificial intelligence conversations prevents confusion and strengthens trust. When users know upfront that automation is at play, they engage more confidently—without feeling misled by the technology behind the voice.

Why BOT Disclosure Matters

As artificial intelligence advances, AI voices now sound remarkably human. Without proper disclosure, a customer could easily believe they’re speaking to an actual representative, only to feel misled later. BOT Disclosure helps to protect both the user and the business.

For companies, it’s more than compliance; it’s integrity. Laws like California’s SB-1001 and similar federal measures are designed to prohibit unfair trade practices and maintain consumer confidence. They remind businesses, tech developers, and even internet service providers that automation must be transparent. Failing to disclose a bot’s identity, especially in commercial transaction scenarios, can result in penalties or reputational damage.

When asked, our AI voice agents naturally introduce themselves while maintaining your brand’s tone and professionalism. This approach keeps you compliant with California law while showing customers that you value honesty in automation.

Best Practices for BOT Disclosure

Here’s how to make BOT Disclosure both compliant and customer-friendly:

• State identity upfront: Start every interaction with a clear introduction. Example: “Hi! You’re speaking with Sarah, your AI voice assistant.”

• Keep it natural: Avoid cold or overly formal phrasing, sound human even while being transparent.

• Clarify scope: Briefly outline what the bot can do (scheduling, routing calls, or checking information) so users know what to expect.

• Enable human access: Always give customers the option to reach a real person. Clear choices reduce frustration and build trust.

Success With Honest Conversations

BOT Disclosure is more than a checkbox on a compliance form; it’s a proactive disclosure that shows your business operates with transparency and respect. By clearly stating your AI’s identity, you prevent misunderstandings and reinforce confidence in every interaction.

At Phonely, we believe that ethical artificial intelligence design leads to better relationships. When your AI voice agent communicates openly and confidently, your brand earns not just compliance but genuine customer trust.