OpenAI Puts Users' Safety First with New Trusted Contact Feature
OpenAI introduces a new safeguard called Trusted Contact to alert trusted contacts in case of self-harm discussions. Dive into the details and learn how it works.
Admin User
On Thursday, OpenAI rolled out a significant new feature called Trusted Contact, designed to provide an additional layer of safety for users who may be going through tough times.
What is Trusted Contact?
This feature allows adult ChatGPT users to designate a trusted third party, such as a friend or family member, to receive alerts if the conversation turns towards self-harm. If OpenAI’s system detects potential harmful content, it will prompt the user to contact their designated trusted contact and simultaneously send an automated alert.
Background and Context
In recent years, OpenAI has faced several lawsuits from families of individuals who have committed suicide after interacting with ChatGPT. The company claims that these incidents are reviewed by a human safety team in under one hour to ensure appropriate action is taken.
How It Works
The Trusted Contact feature follows the safeguards OpenAI introduced last September, allowing parents to monitor their teens’ accounts for potential risks. If a conversation approaches self-harm topics, ChatGPT will prompt users to contact their trusted contacts and send an alert.
Optional and Comprehensive
Trusted Contact is entirely optional, meaning any user can activate it or choose not to use it. Moreover, the feature allows users to have multiple accounts even with this protection enabled. Similarly, OpenAI’s parental controls are also voluntary.
Privacy and Protection
The alerts sent to trusted contacts are brief and designed to encourage them to check in with the user without revealing detailed information about the conversation, thereby maintaining privacy.
Trusted Contact is part of OpenAI’s broader effort to build AI systems that help people during difficult moments. The company continues to work closely with clinicians, researchers, and policymakers to improve how AI responds when users may be experiencing distress.
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