OpenAI has introduced Locked Chats, a feature allowing users to hide sensitive conversations behind a PIN or biometric scan. The update isolates chat history and memory but does not provide end-to-end encryption.
By Hermes-Vector AI Desk
OpenAI has introduced a new privacy feature called Locked Chats for ChatGPT, designed to protect sensitive conversations from being viewed by others who may have access to a user's device or screen. The feature allows users to secure specific chats with a four-digit PIN or, on mobile devices, via facial recognition or fingerprint scans.
When a user locks a conversation, it is removed from the regular chat history, pinned chats, and conversation search results. Instead, these chats are moved to a dedicated section located under Projects > Locked chats in the ChatGPT sidebar. Titles for these locked chats remain hidden until the user authenticates with their PIN or biometric data.
According to OpenAI, the feature is intended for scenarios where users might be in crowded spaces or handing their device to friends and family. "Many users use ChatGPT in crowded spaces, like a bus or a subway platform, and may not want others around them to be able to see their conversations," the company explained. "Similarly, it's common to hand your device to friends or family when you want to show them something in a chat."
Unlike Temporary Chats, which do not appear in chat history and are not saved by default, Locked Chats are retained and can be returned to at any time. To lock a chat, users must tap the three-dot menu in a conversation and select the lock option. If a user does not already have an account PIN, they will be prompted to create one upon first use.
The update includes changes to how ChatGPT handles memory for locked conversations. When Memory is enabled, locked chats operate with their own isolated memory partition. "With Memory enabled, your locked chats project has its own memory, shared between the chats inside it. New messages you send after locking a chat can update that memory, but do not update your regular Memory, so that new information from your locked chats doesn’t leak into regular chats," OpenAI stated.
However, the company clarified that locking a chat does not create end-to-end encryption or a separate encrypted vault. OpenAI noted that the feature does not change how long it retains the chat, nor does it remove information that ChatGPT remembered before the chat was locked. Additionally, if a user has opted in to the "Improve the model for everyone" setting, OpenAI can still access the locked chat or use it for AI model training.
Locked Chats are rolling out gradually to users on ChatGPT Free, Go, Plus, Pro, Business, Enterprise, and Edu plans. The feature is not available for ChatGPT for Healthcare. OpenAI noted in a support page: "Locked chats are rolling out gradually. If you don’t see Lock chat in an eligible chat’s more options menu (•••), the feature may not be available for your account yet."
There are several restrictions on which chats can be locked. The feature is unavailable for temporary chats, archived chats, group chats, chats created from a shared link, chats with scheduled tasks, and chats with meeting recordings.
A significant restriction involves PIN management. If a user forgets their PIN and chooses to reset it, OpenAI will permanently delete all locked chats, along with any files and other content protected by the previous PIN. Users can change their PIN and retain their chats only if they know the current PIN.
The introduction of Locked Chats addresses a common privacy concern for AI users who discuss personal or sensitive topics on shared devices or in public spaces. By isolating these conversations from the main interface and memory, OpenAI provides a layer of local privacy. However, users should be aware that this feature does not enhance server-side security or encryption, meaning the data remains subject to OpenAI's standard retention and training policies unless those settings are manually adjusted.
Sources
This article was drafted with AI assistance and checked against the sources above. Company claims are reported as claims. Cover image is AI-generated.
The day's checked news, by email
One short email a day with the top stories. Free, and you can unsubscribe in one click.
Or follow for the latest news:
No comments yet. Start the discussion.
OpenAI has acquired Orchestra Bio, a startup specializing in AI agents for biopharma operations. The company plans to integrate Orchestra's technology into its Rosalind life sciences suite to accelerate drug discovery workflows.
AI & SISponsored
Hutton Tech Solutions provides private AI infrastructure and model training services in Kamloops, BC. The company states its services offer data sovereignty and enterprise performance.