Did Sam Altman put profits before safety? 8 US states sue OpenAI over ChatGPT risks

Eight US states have sued OpenAI, alleging ChatGPT poses risks to children and vulnerable users and that the company misled consumers about its safety. The lawsuits seek civil penalties, stronger safeguards and other court-ordered changes, including action on minors' data.

OpenAI is facing lawsuits filed by eight US states accusing the company of putting profits ahead of safety while developing ChatGPT. The complaints, filed separately on October 14, 2026, allege that the AI company misled consumers about the chatbot's safety, exposed children and other vulnerable users to potential harm, and violated state consumer protection laws.

Iowa, Kansas, Nebraska, West Virginia, Arkansas, Arizona, Idaho and Montana filed the lawsuits. According to Reuters, the states are seeking civil penalties and court orders to prevent OpenAI from making misleading claims about ChatGPT's safety. Some complaints also seek the deletion of personal information allegedly collected unlawfully from minors.

OpenAI accused of prioritising profits over AI safety

The states allege that OpenAI promoted ChatGPT as a safe, youth-appropriate tool without adequately disclosing its potential risks. The complaints raise concerns about the chatbot's interactions with vulnerable individuals, including allegations that it could reinforce delusions, provide dangerous medical advice, undermine critical thinking and encourage unhealthy relationships.

The lawsuits also refer to separate wrongful-death cases brought against OpenAI by families who allege that ChatGPT contributed to their loved ones' deaths. These allegations remain subject to legal scrutiny and do not, by themselves, establish the company's liability.

Arizona's lawsuit, cited in a report by The Verge, argues that OpenAI has moved away from its original public-interest mission by allowing commercial priorities to overshadow essential safety measures.

Pragya Singha Roy