OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has warned users to exercise caution when sharing sensitive personal information with ChatGPT, especially using it like an informal therapist or life coach. Altman confirmed that conversations with ChatGPT currently do not carry legal privilege. In the event of litigation or legal requests, OpenAI may be compelled to hand over chat transcripts even deleted ones potentially exposing deeply private data.
This admission comes amid mounting use of the AI chatbot for emotional support, relationship advice, and mental wellness dialogue. Altman contrasted AI interactions with sessions involving licensed professionals, noting that only the latter enjoy doctor–patient or attorney–client confidentiality. He called on lawmakers to establish legal frameworks extending similar protections to AI communications.
Rights advocates are now calling for urgent reform, arguing that current data retention and privacy policies leave users vulnerable. Some jurisdictions already request long term storage or may demand access to logs under subpoena. Until laws catch up, users are advised to avoid sharing personal identifiers or intimate details with ChatGPT, particularly in free or basic versions.
In short, conversations in AI space remain entirely exposed to legal process and disclosure. Those treating ChatGPT as a confidential confidant may face real consequences, Altman’s warning suggests.
