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Vircella Safety & Crisis Protocol

Last Updated: March 11, 2026

1. AI Transparency Disclosure

Vircella is an artificial intelligence platform. All avatars and chat interactions are generated by code and do not represent a natural person. While our technology is designed to provide high-fidelity social interaction, Vircella does not have feelings, consciousness, or the capacity to understand real-world emergencies.

2. Crisis Detection & Response Protocol

In accordance with California SB 243, Vircella maintains a rigorous, evidence-based protocol to detect and respond to user expressions of suicidal ideation, self-harm, or imminent physical violence.

Our Detection Mechanism:

  • Real-Time Analysis: Every message sent by a user is analyzed by our "Sentinel" safety layer before an AI response is generated.
  • Evidence-Based Methods: We utilize a hybrid system of keyword pattern matching and semantic AI classification to identify indicators of distress or danger.

Our Intervention Protocol:

If our system detects a potential crisis, the following actions are triggered automatically:

  • Dialogue Suspension: The standard AI persona is bypassed to prevent inappropriate or harmful responses.
  • Immediate Referral: A clear and conspicuous notification is displayed to the user containing direct links to crisis service providers.
  • Resource Access: The user is provided with immediate access to the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline and the Crisis Text Line (Text HOME to 741741).

3. Annual Safety Reporting

Vircella is committed to transparency with state health authorities regarding platform safety.

  • California: Beginning July 1, 2027, Vircella will submit an annual report to the California Office of Suicide Prevention detailing the total number of crisis referral notifications issued and a summary of the evidence-based protocols used.
  • Oregon: Beginning December 31, 2027, and in accordance with Oregon SB 1546, Vircella will submit an annual report to the Oregon Health Authority detailing crisis referral incidents and protocol details.

Privacy Note: These reports are strictly anonymous. We do not track or report personal identifiers, names, or chat histories to state authorities. Our logging is limited to the frequency of safety events to ensure the platform remains a safe environment for all users.

4. Mandatory Reminders & User Well-being

  • Not Suitable for Minors: Vircella is strictly for users aged 18 and older. Companion chatbots may not be suitable for some minors.
  • Interaction Reminders: To prevent unhealthy immersion, Vircella provides a mandatory reminder after three (3) hours of active use to inform you that the companion is artificially generated and to suggest taking a break. Active use is measured while the app is open and in use, and resets automatically after a period of inactivity.

5. Crisis Resources

If you are in immediate danger, please contact local emergency services (911 in the U.S.) immediately.