September 16, 2025 – OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has outlined how the company is navigating tensions between teen safety, user freedom, and privacy in the use of AI, noting that these principles often conflict but require careful resolution.

Protecting Privacy Like Doctor–Patient Confidentiality

Altman emphasized that conversations with AI are among the most personal forms of digital interaction. Similar to how medical or legal information is privileged, OpenAI believes AI interactions should receive the same level of protection.

OpenAI is building advanced security systems so that even employees cannot access user conversations, with exceptions only for critical risks such as threats to life, plans to cause harm, or large-scale cybersecurity threats.

Expanding User Freedom Responsibly

For adult users, OpenAI aims to maximize freedom within safe boundaries. Altman highlighted examples:

• By default, the AI avoids flirtatious talk, but adults can request it.

• The AI will not provide instructions for self-harm but can assist with fictional storytelling involving such themes.

This principle is summed up internally as: “Treat our adult users like adults.”

Prioritizing Teen Safety

For teens, OpenAI takes a different approach, placing safety above freedom and privacy.

• An age-prediction system is being developed to detect under-18 users, defaulting to the safer teen experience when in doubt.

• In some regions, ID verification may be required, even at the cost of adult user privacy.

• Teens will face stricter restrictions: no flirtatious talk, no self-harm discussions (even in fiction), and proactive intervention if suicidal ideation is detected. In severe cases, OpenAI may notify parents or authorities.

Transparency on Tradeoffs

Altman acknowledged the tradeoffs: “We realize that these principles are in conflict and not everyone will agree with how we are resolving that conflict. These are difficult decisions, but after talking with experts, this is what we think is best.”

With AI becoming deeply integrated into daily life, OpenAI’s stance highlights the delicate balance between innovation, user rights, and responsible safeguards—especially for teens.