A group of state attorneys general has begun an investigation into OpenAI.
OpenAI received a subpoena from the attorney general of New York on Friday, as reported. This subpoena requests documents regarding various subjects, including the company’s advertising practices, user engagement and retention, treatment of consumer and health data, as well as its policies concerning minors and the elderly.
TechCrunch has attempted to contact both OpenAI and the New York attorney general’s office for further confirmation. According to a spokesperson for OpenAI, the organization is fully cooperating with the inquiry.
“AI is an innovative and potent technology, and we strive every day to responsibly harness its advantages for the public,” the spokesperson stated. “We recognize the concerns raised by state attorneys general and plan to interact constructively with their offices.”
Bloomberg reported that the spokesperson noted ChatGPT now offers enhanced protections for minors and users facing challenges, featuring safeguards that lead them to legitimate resources and trusted individuals. However, the company did not disclose which states are involved in the investigation or provide additional details about the materials requested.
OpenAI recently emerged victorious in a notable lawsuit against its co-founder Elon Musk, who accused the firm of breaching their founding agreement. Musk’s attorney indicated intentions to appeal the ruling.
Nonetheless, OpenAI continues to encounter lawsuits addressing various issues, from supposed copyright violations to allegations concerning ChatGPT’s involvement in suicide cases. Earlier this month, Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier filed a lawsuit against OpenAI and its CEO Sam Altman, asserting that they “disregarded internal and external safety warnings, endangered children, and permitted a hazardous product to reach millions in Florida.”
Altman recently expressed regret to the community of Tumbler Ridge, Canada, following a mass shooting incident; he admitted that OpenAI did not notify law enforcement after suspending the ChatGPT account of the suspected shooter.
This week, the company also revealed that it has confidentially filed for an initial public offering.
