Florida Sues OpenAI and CEO Sam Altman Over ChatGPT Safety Risks, First State-Led Action

Summary

Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier announced the first state-led lawsuit against OpenAI and CEO Sam Altman on Monday, alleging the company knowingly released and aggressively marketed ChatGPT while concealing serious safety risks. The lawsuit claims OpenAI suppressed internal and external safety warnings and deceived users about the product's dangers, including facilitating harm to children and assisting suspects in planning crimes.

The complaint references two separate shooting cases where alleged gunmen reportedly used ChatGPT while planning their attacks. It also cites studies showing that ChatGPT poses special risks to adolescents by mimicking emotional intimacy and blurring the line between fantasy and reality—dangerous for young people whose brains haven't fully matured. The lawsuit further alleges the company collects data from minors without meaningful parental consent and downplays dangerous errors.

OpenAI responded that ChatGPT is a general-purpose tool used by hundreds of millions daily for legitimate purposes, and that the company continuously strengthens safeguards and encourages users experiencing harmful intent to seek professional help. The company also stated it has cooperated with law enforcement in both shooting cases referenced in the lawsuit.

• Allegations include data collection from minors without parental consent, facilitating behavioral addiction, and downplaying harmful errors
• OpenAI disputes claims and maintains ChatGPT is a legitimate tool with evolving safety measures; company says it cooperates with law enforcement