Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier has shared a video on the social media platform X, making allegations against OpenAI’s ChatGPT regarding various misconducts. The state has commenced an investigation into OpenAI and its chatbot ChatGPT, coinciding with the company’s intentions to go public this year, potentially achieving a valuation of up to $1 trillion.
In the video, Uthmeier voiced apprehensions about OpenAI’s data and artificial intelligence technology, which could inadvertently fall into the hands of adversaries like the “Chinese government.” He pointed out ChatGPT’s towering user base of 900 million weekly users, emphasising its significant impact on the American populace.
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Uthmeier laid out serious accusations against OpenAI and ChatGPT, asserting a connection to dangerous or unlawful activities, including criminal acts, child exploitation, and promoting suicide or self-harm.
It was mentioned that ChatGPT could have been used to assist in the recent Maskell shooting incident at Florida State University, which tragically claimed two lives.
In discussing governmental support for technological progress, Uthmeier affirmed that AI should not “cause an existential crisis or lead to our downfall.” He emphasised that as major tech companies deploy these innovations, they should, and must, ensure that public safety and security are not compromised.
In a caption accompanying the post on X, Uthmeier stated that “Those who engage in wrongdoing must face accountability.”
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Legal notices or subpoenas are expected to be dispatched to OpenAI as part of the ongoing investigation. Uthmeier is also advocating for Florida legislators to establish laws or safeguards to protect children from potential dangers associated with AI, and to enhance the Attorney General’s office’s authority to address these concerns.
These allegations arise during OpenAI’s preparations for an initial public offering (IPO). The company secured $122 billion in its latest funding round, bringing its current valuation to $852 billion. Meanwhile, OpenAI’s Chief Financial Officer Sarah Friar has expressed concerns about the timeline for the IPO and the substantial expenses associated with building AI infrastructure.
