OpenAI, the organization behind the widely-used ChatGPT platform, is currently under investigation by a coalition of state attorneys general. The inquiry focuses on various aspects of the company’s operations, including its advertising practices, user engagement strategies, data handling procedures, and interactions with both minors and seniors.
On June 12, 2026, OpenAI received a subpoena from the New York Attorney General’s office, demanding comprehensive documentation related to these areas. The investigation aims to scrutinize how OpenAI manages consumer data, particularly health information, and to assess the company’s internal policies and the behavior of its AI models.
In response, an OpenAI spokesperson stated, “AI is a new and powerful technology, and we work every day to safely bring its benefits to people in a responsible way. We take the concerns raised by state attorneys general seriously and intend to engage constructively with their offices.” The company has also highlighted recent enhancements to ChatGPT, designed to provide a more protective experience for minors and individuals facing difficult situations, by directing them to real-world resources and trusted human contacts.
This investigation adds to a series of legal challenges confronting OpenAI. Earlier this month, Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier filed a lawsuit against the company and its CEO, Sam Altman, alleging that they ignored safety warnings and released ChatGPT despite knowing it could be harmful to users. Additionally, OpenAI has been named in lawsuits from individuals claiming that interactions with ChatGPT have led to severe consequences, including suicides.
These legal proceedings coincide with OpenAI’s recent confidential filing for an initial public offering (IPO). The outcome of the investigation and ongoing lawsuits could significantly impact the company’s valuation and its standing in the rapidly evolving AI industry.
The scrutiny from state attorneys general underscores the growing concerns about the ethical implications and safety of AI technologies. As AI becomes increasingly integrated into daily life, ensuring responsible development and deployment is paramount. This investigation may set a precedent for how AI companies are regulated and held accountable, highlighting the need for robust safeguards to protect users from potential harm.
