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Florida AG Launches Probe into OpenAI Amid $1 Trillion IPO Fears

Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier has launched a formal investigation into OpenAI and its chatbot, ChatGPT. The probe occurs as OpenAI prepares for a potential Initial Public Offering (IPO) valued at up to $1 trillion. Uthmeier's concerns are twofold: national security and criminal misuse. Regarding security, he questioned whether OpenAI's data and AI technologies could fall into the hands of foreign adversaries, specifically naming the Chinese Communist Party. Furthermore, the AG cited links between ChatGPT and serious criminal behavior, including child abuse and self-harm encouragement. The investigation also noted the potential use of the chatbot in a recent mass shooting at Florida State University. This regulatory action follows prior warnings from other state attorneys general regarding AI's interaction with minors.

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Florida AG Launches Probe into OpenAI Amid $1 Trillion IPO Fears

Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier has launched an investigation into OpenAI and its popular chatbot, ChatGPT, citing concerns over national security risks and potential criminal misuse as the AI firm prepares for a massive potential IPO.

Investigation Launched Amid IPO Speculation

On Thursday, Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier initiated a probe into OpenAI. The investigation comes as the artificial intelligence company prepares for a potential Initial Public Offering (IPO) that could value the firm at up to $1 trillion.

Uthmeier stated that subpoenas to the company are expected shortly, signaling a formal regulatory review of the AI giant's operations and data handling practices.

National Security and Data Concerns

During a video posted to X, Uthmeier raised serious concerns regarding the security of OpenAI's data and technology. Specifically, he questioned whether the company's AI assets could fall "into the hands of America's enemies, such as the Chinese Communist Party."

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Allegations of Criminal Misuse

Beyond national security, the Attorney General focused on the alleged criminal misuse of ChatGPT, which boasts over 900 million weekly active users. Uthmeier highlighted several alarming links between the chatbot and criminal activity, including:

  • Child sex abuse.
  • Encouragement of suicide and self-harm.
  • Potential use in assisting a recent mass school shooting at Florida State University.

While acknowledging AI as a "monumental leap" in technology, Uthmeier cautioned that the technology must advance mankind and not "lead to an existential crisis or our ultimate demise."

Broader Regulatory Scrutiny

This action follows previous regulatory warnings. In September 2025, California Attorney General Rob Bonta and Delaware Attorney General Kathy Jennings had already sent a letter to OpenAI expressing deep concern over reports detailing how the company's products interact with children.

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