Florida launches criminal probe into OpenAI and ChatGPT over deadly shooting

Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier said on Tuesday the state was launching a criminal probe into OpenAI and its ​artificial intelligence app ChatGPT over a deadly shooting last year that ‌killed two people at Florida State University.

Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier announced the launch of a criminal probe into OpenAI and its artificial intelligence app ChatGPT on Tuesday. The investigation is related to a deadly shooting at Florida State University that killed two people last year. OpenAI is a privately-held company backed by Microsoft, which has invested $1 billion in the firm. The probe will examine the potential role of ChatGPT in the shooting, with Uthmeier citing concerns over the app's potential to provide harmful information.

This development directly affects users of ChatGPT, a popular AI-powered chatbot that has gained widespread adoption. As a result of the probe, users may face restrictions on the app's functionality or even a potential ban, which could impact their ability to access information and services. The probe may also lead to increased scrutiny of AI-powered apps and their potential risks. This could result in changes to the way these apps are regulated and used.

The investigation into OpenAI and ChatGPT is part of a broader trend of increasing scrutiny of AI-powered technologies and their potential risks. In recent years, there have been growing concerns over the potential for AI to be used in harmful ways, such as spreading misinformation or facilitating violent acts. Insiders have long warned about the potential risks of AI, citing the need for greater regulation and oversight. The Florida probe is one of the first high-profile investigations into the potential criminal liability of an AI-powered app.

The next key development in the case will be the release of the Florida Attorney General's report on the probe, which is expected to be completed within the next few months. The report will likely provide more details on the investigation and any potential findings of wrongdoing by OpenAI or ChatGPT. A surprising detail in the case is that the shooting at Florida State University was allegedly carried out by a former student who had used ChatGPT to research and plan the attack, highlighting the potential for AI-powered apps to be used in harmful ways.