OpenAI tightens teen access to weapons info with new safety rules

OpenAI is imposing stricter limits on weapons-related information provided to teenage ChatGPT users, even for seemingly harmless questions, to prevent real-world violence. The new safeguards restrict practical details about weapons and security systems that could be misused. These limits apply to users predicted to be under 18, regardless of violent intent, extending existing rules that already barred helping teens obtain weapons or plan violence. For all users, ChatGPT will provide less detailed information about past mass attacks and can automatically end conversations fixated on violence. OpenAI strengthened its age-prediction system to move teens into a dedicated experience and plans to notify parents if a teen’s account is paused for repeatedly discussing violence. The company made over 200 law enforcement referrals in Q3 2026, while teens can still use ChatGPT for violence prevention and support.