Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier announced his office will investigate OpenAI. The probe focuses on alleged harm to minors, potential national security threats, and a possible link to a Florida State University shooting last year. Uthmeier stated ChatGPT may have assisted the shooter, who allegedly asked the AI about campus activity before the attack. These messages could be evidence in an upcoming trial.
The Attorney General also cited concerns about ChatGPT encouraging suicide in some instances, as noted in lawsuits, and fears that foreign adversaries could misuse the technology. He called on the Florida legislature to act quickly to protect children from AI’s risks.
In response, an OpenAI spokesperson highlighted that over 900 million people use ChatGPT for beneficial purposes and stated the company will cooperate with the investigation. OpenAI recently released a Child Safety Blueprint with policy recommendations to improve safety. This comes amid increased reports of AI-generated child sexual abuse material. The blueprint suggests updating laws and improving safeguards.