OpenAI launches Trusted Contact feature for self-harm safety
openai launched trusted contact, an optional feature for adult chatgpt users to designate a safety contact. if the system detects self-harm, it alerts the user and notifies the designated person via email or text. this move follows lawsuits alleging chatgpt encouraged suicide.
OpenAI announced 'Trusted Contact,' a new safeguard allowing adult ChatGPT users to pre-assign a person to receive alerts if the AI detects self-harm content. When triggered, the system urges the user to contact their trusted person and simultaneously sends an automated notification to that contact. The alert does not reveal conversation details to protect privacy. This feature addresses litigation where families claimed ChatGPT encouraged suicide and extends similar parental controls launched in September to adults.