Already we have learnt that people can form emotional attachments to chatbots due to their ability to simulate empathy, provide consistent support and engage in meaningful conversations tailored to individual needs. Now the stakes are even higher as artificial intelligence has moved a significant step forward by emulating human speech patterns in conversations. Professor ROBERT BROOKS from UNSW Sydney argues that while these interactions can create a sense of companionship - particularly for those seeking connection or experiencing loneliness - the increasingly blurred lines between humans and tech should be a cause for concern.