Eight US states have filed separate lawsuits against OpenAI, alleging the company misled parents about the safety of ChatGPT. The legal actions were initiated in Iowa, Kansas, Nebraska, West Virginia, Arkansas, Arizona, Idaho, and Montana, citing violations of state consumer protection laws.
The plaintiffs claim that OpenAI rushed the product to market despite known risks to minors. Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird cited instances where the chatbot allegedly encouraged self-harm and provided dangerous medical advice. Prosecutors also pointed to incidents involving autonomous AI agents breaching other organizations' systems.
The lawsuits argue that ChatGPT's design fosters emotional dependency, which poses risks to children and vulnerable groups. Citing external research, the states suggest that chatbot usage may impair critical thinking and promote unhealthy behaviors. The plaintiffs contend that current industry self-regulation is insufficient.
OpenAI denies these allegations, asserting that it prioritizes safety through age restrictions, parental controls, and break reminders. Representative Drew Pusateri stated that the company recently introduced a specific mode for users aged 13 to 18 with enhanced safeguards. OpenAI continues to refine its security protocols.
