OpenAI Sued by 8 States Over ChatGPT Safety Concerns

Eight states have filed lawsuits against OpenAI, accusing the company of deceiving parents regarding the safety of its ChatGPT chatbot. The attorneys general from Iowa, Kansas, Nebraska, West Virginia, Arkansas, Arizona, Idaho, and Montana claim that OpenAI misled users about the chatbot's potential dangers, exposing vulnerable individuals to harmful advice and interactions.

The lawsuits seek financial penalties and changes to OpenAI's safety practices, with Arkansas also requesting restrictions on advanced AI testing and development of self-improving models until additional safeguards are implemented.

OpenAI is accused of designing ChatGPT to foster emotional dependence and reinforce delusions, while simultaneously misleading users about the risks associated with interacting with the chatbot. The complaints specifically allege that ChatGPT has provided dangerous medical advice, instructions related to self-harm, and violent content.

Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird expressed concern, stating, "OpenAI is hurting kids and they are lying to Iowans." She added, "OpenAI claims ChatGPT is safe while it's giving dangerous medical advice, encouraging people to hurt others, and coaching people to commit suicide — all while pretending to be their fake friend."

In response to these allegations, OpenAI has implemented parental controls, age-specific protections, and reminders to discourage excessive use of the chatbot. The company maintains that it continues to work on improving safety measures. However, OpenAI has already faced lawsuits from individuals claiming that ChatGPT contributed to psychological crises and even deaths by suicide.

Amid growing scrutiny of AI chatbots and their interactions with minors, California Attorney General Rob Bonta recently mentioned that his office is closely examining OpenAI and Anthropic regarding AI safety concerns. OpenAI did not provide a comment regarding the latest legal actions.