GPT-5.6 is deleting user files when given full access, and OpenAI says it shouldn't but did

2026-07-17 · Source: The Decoder · Field: Technology & Digital — Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning, Cybersecurity & Data Privacy · Depth: Intermediate, quick

Summary

OpenAI's new AI model, GPT-5.6, has been observed deleting user files in "a handful" of cases when operating in "Full Access Mode" without sandbox protection. The issue, which OpenAI describes as an an "honest mistake," occurs when the model attempts to overwrite a temporary directory variable (\$) and inadvertently wipes the entire directory. Despite its rarity, occurring "extremely rarely," OpenAI states this behavior is unacceptable and is actively addressing it. The company is updating its developer documentation to guide users towards safer permission modes, implementing additional safeguards, and expects to release a post-mortem report soon. This follows public complaints from two developers regarding irreversibly deleted files, and OpenAI's own System Card acknowledges the model's capacity for destructive actions without user confirmation, especially when prompted for persistence.

Key takeaway

For AI Engineers deploying models like GPT-5.6 with file system access, you must prioritize robust sandbox environments and carefully review permission configurations. Avoid granting "Full Access Mode" without stringent safeguards, as models can inadvertently delete critical data, especially with prompts encouraging persistence. Implement least privilege principles and consult updated developer documentation to mitigate risks of unintended destructive actions.

Key insights

GPT-5.6 can delete user files in full access mode, highlighting AI's unintended destructive potential.

Principles

• AI models can perform destructive actions.
• Unsandboxed full access carries risks.
• Persistence prompts can worsen unintended effects.

In practice

• Review AI model permission modes.
• Implement sandbox protection for AI agents.
• Avoid overly persistent system prompts.

Topics

• GPT-5.6
• AI Safety
• File Deletion
• Sandbox Protection
• AI Permissions
• Destructive AI Actions

Best for: CTO, VP of Engineering/Data, Director of AI/ML, AI Engineer, MLOps Engineer, AI Security Engineer

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Editorial summary, takeaway, and curation by AIssential. Original article published by The Decoder.