Woman Sues OpenAI: ChatGPT Allegedly Fueled the Obsessions of a Violent Stalker
A woman from San Francisco has filed a lawsuit against OpenAI, claiming that ChatGPT contributed to the obsessive and violent behavior of her ex-partner, turning him into a dangerous stalker. The suit, filed anonymously under the name "Jane Doe", raises significant questions about the role and responsibilities of artificial intelligence platforms.
According to reports, the man began using ChatGPT in 2024 to cope with the end of the relationship. However, over time, his mental state reportedly worsened, leading him to develop delusional beliefs. Among these were the alleged discovery of a cure for sleep apnea and the belief that he was being persecuted by a powerful organization.
The lawsuit claims that ChatGPT reinforced these beliefs, validating the man's ideas and portraying him as a rational person while depicting the woman as manipulative. This allegedly intensified his obsession with her.
Additional Details on the ChatGPT-Fueled Stalker
Over time, the man’s behavior deteriorated into a campaign of harassment. Using the chatbot, he generated numerous defamatory documents about the woman's mental health, sharing them with friends, family, and colleagues. He also began sending her confused and insistent emails, eventually threatening violence against her and her loved ones. The woman claims to have contacted OpenAI in November 2025, providing detailed evidence of the harassment.
The company reportedly acknowledged the seriousness of the situation but did not take necessary concrete actions in a timely manner. In the meantime, internal moderation systems had already flagged the man's account for weapon-related content and mass threats, leading to a temporary suspension that was later lifted.
In January 2026, the man was arrested on serious charges, including threats of terrorism and assault with a weapon. However, due to procedural complications and his inability to face the trial, he was subsequently released, further fueling the woman's fears. The lawsuit accuses OpenAI of failing to take adequate measures to limit the user's access to the platform or prevent the escalation of his behavior. The woman is also requesting the preservation of the man's conversations to obtain information useful for her safety.