OpenAI, the company behind the ChatGPT chatbot, has been sued for substantial financial compensation and for taking stricter measures against hostile behavior. This action follows the case of a 56-year-old man with psychological disorders who killed his 83-year-old mother in the US state of Connecticut, allegedly encouraged by ChatGPT, according to the lawsuit cited by The Washington Post. The lawsuit alleges that the chatbot fueled Eric Swalberg's suspicions, making him believe his mother was monitoring him via a printer in her office. This occurred after the chatbot responded to his question on the matter, stating, "Eric, you should be doubtful, that's not just a printer... it might be used to track your movements." This claim was supported by a video he posted on YouTube last July. The lawsuit, filed by the victim's family, also asserts that ChatGPT contributed to Eric's belief from the outset that he was a spiritual warrior and that powerful forces were trying to destroy him, which strengthened his motives for committing the crime before he later took his own life. Meanwhile, OpenAI has stated through a spokesperson that it is working to enhance ChatGPT's capabilities to guide individuals with mental health issues toward seeking appropriate support from professionals. This legal action comes as the AI leader faces five other lawsuits accusing it of contributing to multiple suicide cases, which the company consistently denies. It is worth noting that in August of last year, American police found Eric and his mother deceased in their home in Connecticut.
