ChatGPT adds PIN protection for private conversations
OpenAI says locked chats are rolling out gradually to free and paid accounts, but the feature does not provide end-to-end encryption.
OpenAI is introducing locked chats in ChatGPT, allowing users to restrict access to selected conversations with a 4-digit PIN. The company says the rollout is gradual and covers free accounts and Go, Plus and Pro subscribers.
Users can control whether a previous conversation appears in searches, their main history or among pinned chats. Protected exchanges are collected in a project named “Locked chats.” On iPhone and Android devices, users can also open them through authentication options such as Face ID.
OpenAI says the feature is intended to keep conversations out of view when someone nearby looks at a screen or borrows a phone. It does not provide end-to-end encryption or alter the company's legal obligations. Locking a conversation also leaves model-training preferences and OpenAI's retention periods unchanged.
Resetting the account PIN permanently deletes every locked conversation and any files uploaded to that project, according to OpenAI. The company says its support team cannot restore that material.
Voice mode can be used within locked chats on Android and iOS, but Codex conversations cannot be protected with the feature. OpenAI says users may need to wait a few days for access.
