OpenAI recently launched its Mac desktop app for ChatGPT, but it faced a major privacy concern. User conversations were being stored in plain text, making them easily accessible to any potential bad actors who gained access to the user’s machine. This issue was brought to light by Threads user Pedro José Pereira Vieito, who pointed out that the app was not sandboxed and stored conversations in a non-protected location.
In response to this security flaw, OpenAI has updated the app to encrypt local chats, although it still remains non-sandboxed. It’s important to note that the app is only available as a direct download from OpenAI’s website and not through Apple’s App Store, where stricter security measures are typically enforced.
The privacy concerns surrounding the ChatGPT Mac app are particularly troubling considering the sensitive nature of conversations that users might be having. With many people relying on ChatGPT for various tasks, including asking important questions and discussing personal matters, the potential risk of exposing private data is significant.
This incident has raised questions about OpenAI’s security practices, especially in light of its recent partnership with Apple to integrate chat bot services into Siri queries. Apple has demonstrated a commitment to privacy and security in its products, as highlighted during WWDC, which contrasts with the vulnerabilities found in the ChatGPT Mac app.
If you are a user of the ChatGPT Mac app, it is crucial to update the app immediately to ensure that your conversations are encrypted and protected. By staying vigilant about security updates and being mindful of the potential risks associated with digital communication, users can better safeguard their privacy in an increasingly interconnected world.
