OpenAI introduces parental controls to enhance teen safety on ChatGPT

In response to increasing concerns over the safety of young users in the United States, OpenAI recently implemented new parental controls for its ChatGPT application. This decision comes after tragic incidents came to light, including the unfortunate suicides of teenagers connected to interactions with the AI. On September 29, 2025, OpenAI announced these changes aimed at creating a safer environment for teenage users of their service, which has been deemed controversial and risky. The Federal Trade Commission has initiated an inquiry into tech companies, including OpenAI, concerning potential harms that their AI chatbots may cause minors. The parental controls are accessible to users of ChatGPT and function by linking the accounts of parents and their teenagers. To activate these features, both parties must establish their own accounts, after which they can customize settings designed to ensure a more secure experience. The outlines for these controls were detailed further in OpenAI's blog post. Parents may control various settings, including quiet time restrictions, the disabling of chat memory, and options to manage sensitive content. This level of oversight intends to reduce risks associated with the unmoderated use of the application by adolescents. In addition to content moderation, these new measures include a notification system aimed at alerting parents if the system detects signs of potential harm or distress in their children. This notification process involves a specialized team that evaluates situations where acute distress is observed and informs parents through text, email, or push alerts unless they have opted out of this feature. OpenAI has stated it prioritizes the privacy of its users while ensuring that only necessary information is communicated to parents or emergency responders for timely interventions. OpenAI has emphasized the importance of discussing healthy AI use habits between parents and their teens to foster a better understanding of potential dangers while using advanced technologies. This proactive stance aims to ensure that while adolescents engage with ChatGPT, they do so in a manner that is informed, safe, and conducive to their well-being. Furthermore, OpenAI has voiced its commitment to continue enhancing these features as feedback and technological capabilities evolve over time, displaying their awareness of the myriad of responsibilities involved in safeguarding youth in a digital landscape.