OpenAI Stores ChatGPT Mac Keystroke Logs Unencrypted for 48 Hours
Updated
Updated · TNW · Aug 16
OpenAI Stores ChatGPT Mac Keystroke Logs Unencrypted for 48 Hours
3 articles · Updated · TNW · Aug 16
Summary
Plain-text Markdown files holding ChatGPT's new Computer History logs are stored locally on macOS without encryption, leaving them readable to any program running under the same user account.
The feature records clicks, keystrokes, shortcuts and app switches through macOS accessibility tools to build a searchable memory, but excludes screenshots, audio and private browsing after replacing the earlier screen-capturing Chronicle system.
48-hour temporary event files are deleted from the device after processing, OpenAI said, though chat content that later uses those memories can still enter model training depending on a user's settings.
Business and Enterprise admins must enable the tool before users separately consent and turn on Memories; users can pause recording and set app or website include and exclude lists.
OpenAI's own documentation warns of prompt-injection risks and advises excluding health, financial and personal-data apps, while the feature remains unavailable in the EEA, Switzerland and the UK.