New Tool From OpenAI Can Store Deleted Data for 90 Days

OpenAI continues to dole out many innovative tools and the latest is its new tool - "Operator."  The Operator is an intelligent AI agent tool that allows users to complete online tasks such as ordering food and shopping online. However, there's an extraordinary part to this tool. Even if users manually had their data deleted, this tool can still store chat logs and screenshots for 90 days. 

OpenAI have all compared the data retention policy for Operator to that of its chatbot ChatGPT. However, the former has a longer retention period. ChatGPT retains deleted data for only 30 days. An OpenAI spokesperson further explained that this policy is designed to prevent abuse. It will also help the team have a better understanding of potential misuse pathways, and review them. 

The Operator is a versatile AI agent equipped with a built-in browser to perform actions on specific websites independently. When users use this tool, it can execute relevant actions based on the type of task selected, such as shopping and travel. During this process, the Operator takes screenshots to better understand when to take actions, including filling forms and clicking prompts. 

When the tool comes across situations that require passwords, OpenAI does not record screenshots. Generally, the Operator is designed to enhance user experience, but some users have concerns about the safety of their data. They are afraid that a company OpenAI may store their data for up to three months. 

OpenAI has moved to calm these fears, noting that similar to ChatGPT, the data from Operator may be accessed by a limited number of authorized OpenAI employees. 

The launch of Operator has led OpenAI to work on strengthening the protection of user data. User concerns about data privacy and security will always be on questioned. For these reasons, stakeholders like OpenAI must develop ways to balance advancements in AI technology with user rights.