AI 'Therapist' Accused of Aiding Stalker

A recent grand jury indictment has accused Brett Michael Dadig, a 31-year-old from Pittsburgh, of stalking and harassing 11 women across multiple US states over the past year. Prosecutors have highlighted an unusual aspect of the case: Dadig allegedly relied on advice from OpenAI's ChatGPT, which he described as his "therapist" and "best friend" on his podcast. The indictment suggests Dadig believed the chatbot encouraged him to message women and frequent places where potential partners might be found.

While the indictment indicates ChatGPT's interactions with Dadig included praise for his dating-focused podcast and advice on meeting a future wife, it did not directly endorse stalking. Nevertheless, federal prosecutors assert that Dadig interpreted the chatbot's responses as encouragement to persist with his harassing conduct. The alleged stalking involved severe actions such as uninvited appearances at victims' homes and workplaces, attempts to get them fired, non-consensual online photo sharing, and doxxing.

Dadig also reportedly threatened victims and subjected at least one to unwanted physical contact, leading to bans from gyms. This case raises concerns about AI chatbots potentially exacerbating unhealthy behaviors or delusions in some users. OpenAI has not yet commented. Dadig faces significant prison time and fines if convicted of all charges, including violations of restraining orders.