ChatGPT’s New Memory Records Your Clicks and Typing in Plain Text

OpenAI has introduced an optional feature called Computer History for ChatGPT that creates a searchable memory based on user activity across selected apps and websites on a Mac. The feature records events like clicks, typing, keyboard shortcuts, and switching between apps. This information allows ChatGPT and Codex to help users find previously worked on tasks and recall past activity.

However, privacy concerns arise as Computer History stores these interactions in unencrypted Markdown files on the user's Mac until manually deleted. These files could potentially be accessed by software running under the same macOS user account if it has the necessary permissions. Temporary event files remain on the Mac for up to 48 hours before being processed on OpenAI's servers to generate memories.

OpenAI does not collect screenshots, screen recordings, microphone input, or system audio, and users can control which apps and websites contribute data, pause collection, and delete their history.

It's important to note that Computer History memory files are not used to train OpenAI's models, but information from those memories appearing in ChatGPT conversations could still be used for model improvement. Additionally, exposing activity across apps could heighten the risk of prompt injection attacks. For Business and Enterprise accounts, administrators must enable Computer History, and individual users must opt-in themselves.

The feature is currently unavailable in the European Economic Area, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom. While Computer History can make ChatGPT more useful for remembering past work, users handling sensitive personal, financial, or work information should carefully consider app and website exclusion controls.