OpenAI Introduces GPT Store and Enhanced ChatGPT Integration Amid Security Recommendations

By Aya Mohammed On Feb 3, 2024

In early January, OpenAI launched the GPT Store, a platform that grants users access to chatbots based on the company’s developed models, tailored for specific tasks, these specialized versions, known as GPTs, are designed for various purposes including writing, research, programming, education, and productivity enhancement, furthermore, on January 31, 2023, OpenAI introduced a feature in ChatGPT that allows users to summon GPTs in any conversation by typing @ followed by selecting a GPT from a dropdown menu.

Seamless Integration of GPTs in ChatGPT Conversations

This feature enables users to easily incorporate GPTs into their discussions, mimicking the user experience on platforms like Slack, the selected GPT gains a complete understanding of the conversation, allowing users to invoke multiple GPTs tailored to diverse use cases and needs.

Kaspersky Experts Urge Caution

Following the announcement of the capability to summon customized GPTs in ChatGPT conversations, Kaspersky experts emphasized the importance of exercising utmost caution when sharing sensitive information with these models. Vladislav Tushkanov, the director of the Machine Learning Technology Research Development Group at Kaspersky, highlighted that custom AI chatbots, referred to as GPTs, can leverage external resources and tools for advanced functions, OpenAI’s AI Research Lab developed a mechanism enabling users to review and approve the actions performed by a customized GPT, enhancing user data security, this feature also applies to the new capability of summoning GPTs in ChatGPT conversations.

User Caution Advised Despite Security Mechanisms

Despite OpenAI’s security mechanisms, Tushkanov advises users to remain vigilant and scrutinize each request carefully, there are potential risks for user data leakage from any chatbot service due to errors or vulnerabilities, especially if the developing company retains data for model training or in the event of user account breaches, thus, users are advised to refrain from sharing personal and confidential information with any online chatbot service.

This development by OpenAI represents a significant step towards enhancing digital conversations through AI-driven customizations, while also raising important discussions about user data security and privacy in the era of advanced AI technologies.