OpenAI dismisses three safety researchers for allegedly sharing confidential company data with an external organization.

OpenAI recently dismissed three safety researchers for allegedly sharing confidential company data with an external artificial intelligence safety organization, according to a report published by The Wall Street Journal on Thursday. An OpenAI spokesperson stated that an internal investigation confirmed the workers broke rules by handling sensitive details outside official procedures.

The report did not disclose the identities of the researchers, the third-party group, or the specific details shared. Unnamed individuals were named in social media posts on X, but their identities remain unconfirmed. These exits follow a recent New York Times report stating that company leaders ignored staff warnings about safety protocols and security priorities.

OpenAI stated that it takes security seriously and provides internal reporting channels while admitting a need for speed. Additionally, the company recently canceled the planned release of the GPT-6.1 Astra AI model due to safety worries. This follows earlier dismissals in 2024 when OpenAI fired researchers Leopold Aschenbrenner and Pavel Izmailov for alleged leaks.