OpenAI is facing a class action lawsuit accusing the company of improperly sharing ChatGPT user queries with Meta and Google. The complaint, filed in federal court, centers on embedded trackers on OpenAI's website that allegedly transmitted user data to these tech giants without consent.
The lawsuit claims that OpenAI's use of tracking pixels — a common tool for analyzing user behavior — violated wiretap and privacy laws. Specifically, the complaint alleges that the company shared user queries and other personally identifiable information with Meta Platforms Inc. and Alphabet Inc.'s Google. The legal action seeks damages for potentially millions of affected users.
This case adds to mounting scrutiny over how companies handle user data shared with large language models. While many AI firms have faced privacy complaints — including Italy's temporary ban of ChatGPT over data collection concerns — this lawsuit uniquely targets the relationship between AI providers and the advertising ecosystems of Big Tech companies.
The outcome could have significant implications for industry practices regarding embedded trackers on AI platforms. If the court rules against OpenAI, it may force AI companies to overhaul their data-sharing arrangements and reassess compliance with state and federal privacy laws. Legal experts suggest the case also tests long-standing defenses under the federal Wiretap Act in the context of modern tracking technologies.
The named plaintiffs, who are ChatGPT users, argue they were not informed that their interactions with the AI model were being monitored and shared for purposes beyond the chatbot's functionality. The lawsuit does not specify damages but seeks class certification, injunctive relief, and monetary compensation.