OpenAI hit with multistate probe into possible user harm as its IPO looms

Source: PBS News/AP

Jun 13, 2026 3:52 PM EDT


NEW YORK (AP) — OpenAI received a subpoena from several states as part of a probe into the safety of users of its chatbot as it prepares to offer stock to the public for the first time.

The company behind the popular chatbot ChatGPT said it will respond to the inquiry "constructively" and that it already has in place measures to protect its customers. "AI is a new and powerful technology, and we work every day to safely bring its benefits to people in a responsible way," an emailed statement from a spokesperson said. "We take the concerns raised by state attorneys general seriously."

OpenAI has drawn criticism for ChatGPT allegedly offering encouraging words to users thinking of killing themselves or engaging criminal acts. It also has come under scrutiny for how its uses health data and other personal information of its customers.

On Thursday, the company was sued by a Canadian blaming the chatbot for her daughter's decision to hang herself. Earlier in June, the Florida attorney general sued the company after two separate shootings where alleged gunmen were reported to have asked ChatGPT questions while planning their crimes.

Read more: https://www.pbs.org/newshour/nation/openai-hit-with-multistate-probe-into-possible-user-harm-as-its-ipo-looms