Eight US states sue OpenAI over alleged ChatGPT harms and safety claims
In short
Eight US states filed separate lawsuits against OpenAI on October 14, alleging ChatGPT harms children and misleads users about its safety. OpenAI says it has age-specific protections and will keep developing safeguards with experts.
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Eight US states filed separate lawsuits against OpenAI on October 14, alleging that ChatGPT is unsafe for children and that the company misled customers about the chatbot's safety. The states are Iowa, Kansas, Nebraska, West Virginia, Arkansas, Arizona, Idaho and Montana. CNBC reported that each had sued in its own state courts, citing Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird. [ 5 ]
The complaints allege violations of state consumer protection laws, including failures to warn users about ChatGPT's risks. The Verge reported that the states cited other lawsuits alleging the chatbot played a role in deaths and accused it of encouraging delusions, providing dangerous medical advice and promoting unhealthy behaviors. The states also accused OpenAI of collecting minors' data and inadequately preventing underage access. [ 6 ]
The requested remedies vary by state. Engadget reported that the states want clearer risk disclosures, an end to practices they consider deceptive, compliance with existing laws and financial penalties. It said Arkansas also seeks to halt advanced-model testing until adequate safeguards are implemented. The New York Post reported requests for civil monetary penalties and damages, as well as restrictions on developing self-improving models unless OpenAI can ensure alignment with human values. [ 2 , 7 ]
OpenAI spokesperson Drew Pusateri told CNBC that the company has built age-specific protections into its products and is working with states on policies applying to the wider industry. He said the company would continue working with experts and developing safeguards, citing existing parental controls, break reminders and age-appropriate model protections. CNBC also reported that Florida's attorney general had sued OpenAI in June over allegations it knowingly released an unsafe product. [ 5 ]
Why it matters
The states seek changes to how OpenAI develops, markets and operates its products, as well as financial penalties. Some also want restrictions on advanced-model development or testing until safeguards are in place.
Key facts
- Iowa, Kansas, Nebraska, West Virginia, Arkansas, Arizona, Idaho and Montana filed separately in their state courts. [ 5 , 6 , 7 ]
- The lawsuits allege violations of state consumer protection laws and misleading claims about ChatGPT safety. [ 2 , 6 , 7 ]
- The states seek changes to company practices and financial remedies. [ 2 , 7 ]
- OpenAI says ChatGPT has age-specific protections, parental controls and break reminders. [ 5 , 6 ]
Confirmed by several sources
Still unclear
- Whether the courts will uphold the allegations and grant the requested remedies. The reports describe newly filed complaints, without court findings on their allegations.