OpenAI's CEO Sam Altman announced plans to revise the company's agreement with the Department of Defense to explicitly prevent the use of their AI technology for domestic surveillance on U.S. citizens. This change follows internal communications where Altman emphasized the importance of clarifying that their AI system will not be utilized for tracking or monitoring individuals within the country.
The internal memo shared on X revealed that the company aims to ensure compliance with applicable laws, particularly the Fourth Amendment and the National Security Act. Altman noted that the agency confirmed its services would not be employed by intelligence entities like the NSA without contract modifications.
Altman expressed regret over the rushed announcement made on February 27, citing the complexities involved and the need for clearer communication. He mentioned that the situation could have been perceived as opportunistic, even though the company's intention was to de-escalate potential conflicts. This comes amid tensions with the Defense Department, which has pressured other AI companies, including Anthropic, to relax their operational constraints for various government purposes.