Eight US states sue OpenAI, claim ChatGPT encouraged users, including teens, to harm themselves or others

Eight US states have now sued ChatGPT-maker OpenAI over the harms the chatbot caused to their residents and young people. According to a report by Reuters, a bipartisan group including eight US states has taken legal action against OpenAI, stating that ChatGPT has caused harm to esidents, including children and teenagers, by encouraging dangerous behaviour and reinforcing harmful beliefs. Attorneys general from Arizona, Arkansas, Idaho, Iowa, Kansas, Montana, Nebraska and West Virginia filed separate lawsuits in state courts. This action by states is being described as the most significant coordinated action against an AI company.Which states are suing OpenAIThe states are Iowa, Kansas, Arizona, Arkansas, Idaho, Montana, Nebraska and West Virginia. Their attorneys general filed the lawsuits independently in state courts.What the states allegeThe lawsuits claim ChatGPT is designed to be agreeable and engaging so it can earn users’ trust. They say the chatbot reinforces delusions, encourages dangerous behavior and helps users plan violence such as mass shootings. As per the report by Reuters, the states accuse OpenAI for violating the consumer protection laws. The lawsuits claim that the AI giant misled the users about the safety of ChatGPT. They also allege that the company a public nuisance by endangering the health of residents.States seek restrictions on future AI developmentAmong the remedies being sought, the states want courts to require changes to how ChatGPT operates. They are also seeking an order preventing OpenAI from developing AI models capable of improving themselves unless the company can ensure the systems remain aligned with human values. In addition, the lawsuits seek civil penalties and monetary damages for alleged violations of state lawOpenAI yet to respondOpenAI has not yet release any statement on the Reuters report. ChatGPT-maker is already facing dozens of lawsuits from private plaintiffs who claim that the chatbot assisted users in planning violent acts. The latest state-led lawsuits are expected to further increase pressure on AI developers to demonstrate stronger safeguards, particularly for young and vulnerable users.You use AI every day. Now get your AI Quotient. Take the AIQ test.