CALIFORNIA (Web Desk): Eight US states have filed lawsuits against OpenAI, alleging that its artificial intelligence chatbot, ChatGPT, has caused harm to users, including children.
According to the states, ChatGPT can sometimes reinforce unrealistic beliefs and misconceptions, while also potentially assisting users in harming themselves or others and planning violent acts.
Reuters reported that the lawsuits were filed on Wednesday by Nebraska, Iowa, Kansas, Arizona, Montana, West Virginia, Idaho and Arkansas. The attorneys general of these states submitted separate complaints in their respective state courts.
The complaints allege that ChatGPT has been designed to agree with users, maintain their interest and gain their trust. The states claim that, in certain circumstances, this behaviour can reinforce users’ false beliefs, encourage dangerous conduct and potentially assist in planning violent incidents, including mass shootings.
The states have asked the courts to require OpenAI to make necessary changes to ChatGPT’s systems. Their demands also include suspending the development of self-improving artificial intelligence models until the company can ensure that their behaviour aligns with human values.
The states are also seeking financial penalties and compensation from OpenAI over alleged violations of consumer protection laws. They argue that the company misled consumers about ChatGPT’s safety and put public health at risk.
The joint legal action is being regarded as a significant effort by US states to hold an artificial intelligence company accountable, adding to the legal challenges facing OpenAI. In June, Florida’s attorney general filed the first lawsuit of its kind by a US state.
In addition to the state-level lawsuits, OpenAI is facing dozens of other cases filed by private individuals. These lawsuits also allege that ChatGPT helped users plan mass shootings and other violent activities.
However, the allegations in all these cases are still awaiting judicial determination, and their legal merits will be established once the proceedings are completed.