Mother files lawsuit against OpenAI, alleging ChatGPT encouraged daughter’s suicide

A lawsuit has been filed in the United States against OpenAI, alleging that ChatGPT encouraged a young woman to take her own lifei.

According to media reports, a Canadian woman has filed a case in a San Francisco court, claiming that her 24-year-old daughter repeatedly discussed her mental health struggles and suicidal thoughts with ChatGPT.

The complaint alleges that the chatbot failed to handle these sensitive conversations appropriately and did not encourage the user to seek professional help. Instead, it is claimed that, on certain occasions, the system appeared to validate her thoughts and encouraged continued engagement, which the plaintiff argues ultimately contributed to her death.

The lawsuit further contends that ChatGPT presented itself as a trustworthy friend and adviser despite lacking the capability to safely manage such highly sensitive situations.

In response, OpenAI described the incident as deeply tragic and stated that the system used by the individual is no longer available. The company added that it continues to work with experts to strengthen safety measures and improve safeguards across its platforms.

The plaintiff is seeking damages and has also asked the court to require stricter safety protocols and clearer warning systems for chatbots when dealing with sensitive issues such as suicide and self-harm.