OpenAI has introduced a security feature for ChatGPT that allows users to protect specific conversations with a four-digit PIN code. These locked chats are hidden from the main history, pinned items, and search results, appearing instead in a dedicated section called Locked chats.
For mobile users on iOS and Android, the feature supports biometric authentication, including Face ID. The tool is designed to prevent unauthorized access to chats if a device is shared with others. However, OpenAI notes that this does not provide end-to-end encryption or change data storage and training policies.
Users should be aware that resetting the PIN will permanently delete all protected chats and associated files, with no recovery options available through customer support. The feature is being rolled out gradually to all users, including those on free, Go, Plus, and Pro plans.
While the locking mechanism works with voice mode on mobile devices, it is not compatible with Codex. OpenAI also specifies that this security measure does not exempt users from their existing legal obligations regarding data.
