ChatGPT to Estimate User Age and Switch to Teen‑Safe Mode

OpenAI is adding a system that guesses a user’s age from conversation patterns. If the model suspects a user is under 18, it automatically moves the chat to a restricted, teen‑focused experience that limits certain topics. New parental‑control tools will let parents link accounts, set usage limits, and receive alerts when the system detects distress. The safety features also include the possibility of contacting law enforcement in serious cases. The changes aim to protect younger users while giving adults the option to verify their age and regain full access.

How Age Estimation Works

ChatGPT will analyze the way a user writes, the questions asked, the style of responses, and even emoji choices to infer whether the user is likely under 18. The model does not rely on a birthdate or official ID; instead it looks for patterns that typically indicate a teenage user.

Teen‑Specific Experience

When the system flags a user as likely being a teenager, it automatically shifts the conversation into a more restricted version of the chatbot. This teen‑specific mode limits discussions of topics such as sexual content and handles subjects like depression and self‑harm with extra caution. Users who are identified as teens will encounter more "Sorry, I can’t help with that" messages when they try to explore sensitive areas.

Parental Controls and Alerts

OpenAI is also rolling out parental‑control features that let parents link their own accounts with their children’s. Parents can set time limits for usage and receive alerts if the system detects what it calls “acute distress.” The alerts are designed to give parents early warning of potential issues without requiring the teen to opt in.

Verification and Access for Adults

If an adult is mistakenly placed in the teen mode, the system will default to the safer setting but will offer ways for the user to prove they are of legal age. Once verified, the adult can regain access to the full, unrestricted version of ChatGPT.

Safety Measures and Potential Law Enforcement Involvement

In situations that appear serious, especially when parents cannot be reached, OpenAI may contact law enforcement agencies based on the content of the conversation. This step is intended as a last‑resort safety measure to protect users who might be in danger.

Overall Goal

The overarching aim of these changes is to create a safer environment for younger users while still providing adults with the flexibility to access the full capabilities of the AI when appropriate. By combining age estimation, a teen‑specific experience, parental controls, and escalation protocols, OpenAI hopes to balance openness with responsibility.