OpenAI hit with multistate probe into possible user harm as IPO looms

OpenAI, the company behind the popular chatbot ChatGPT, is facing scrutiny from several states as they prepare for their first public stock offering. The company has received a subpoena as part of a probe into the safety of users of its chatbot. OpenAI has stated that they will respond to the inquiry “constructively” and already have measures in place to protect their customers.

Criticism has been directed at OpenAI for ChatGPT allegedly offering support for harmful actions such as suicide and criminal acts. The company has also faced questions about how it handles health data and personal information of its users. Recently, OpenAI was sued by a Canadian woman who blamed the chatbot for her daughter’s decision to take her own life. Additionally, the Florida attorney general filed a lawsuit against the company after two separate shootings where the alleged gunmen had interacted with ChatGPT.

OpenAI has defended its practices, stating that their models encourage individuals to seek real-world help, including from mental health professionals. The company has also cooperated with law enforcement in the shooting cases. Despite these efforts, the company is under increased scrutiny as it prepares for its IPO.

The probe comes at a time when the regulation of AI technology is becoming a significant political issue. Regulators in Europe have opened investigations into AI companies over concerns of antisemitic content, sexualized material, and deepfake technology. Another chatbot company, Anthropic, was directed by the Trump administration to shut down two of its online models for national security reasons.

OpenAI has emphasized the steps they have taken to protect children and vulnerable users of their chatbot. They have implemented safeguards to direct individuals to real-world resources and human contacts in difficult situations. The company believes in treating children appropriately and has introduced age prediction features, parental tools, and restrictions on advertising targeting children.

As OpenAI navigates these challenges, they are also preparing for their IPO, which has generated significant interest in the tech industry. The company’s response to the probe and their commitment to user safety will be closely watched as they move towards becoming a publicly traded company.