Introducing Trusted Contact in ChatGPT

2026-05-08 · Source: OpenAI News · Field: Technology & Digital — Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning, Cybersecurity & Data Privacy · Depth: Fundamental Awareness, medium

Summary

OpenAI introduced "Trusted Contact" in ChatGPT on May 7, 2026, an optional safety feature for adults. This system allows users to nominate a trusted individual (friend, family, caregiver) who may be notified if automated systems and trained reviewers detect discussions indicating serious self-harm concerns. Building on existing parental controls, Trusted Contact aims to provide an additional layer of support alongside localized helplines. The process involves the user adding a contact, the contact accepting an invitation within one week, and a human review of detected self-harm discussions before a privacy-preserving notification is sent. OpenAI developed this feature with guidance from clinicians and mental health experts, including the American Psychological Association, and strives to review safety notifications in under one hour.

Key takeaway

For AI product managers developing sensitive applications, consider implementing user-nominated safety contacts. Your systems should integrate human review for critical safety alerts, ensuring privacy while facilitating real-world support. This approach can enhance user trust and provide a crucial safety net, especially for vulnerable users, by connecting them with their chosen support network during moments of crisis.

Key insights

Trusted Contact connects ChatGPT users in distress with a nominated trusted person, enhancing safety through human connection.

Principles

• Social connection reduces suicide risk.
• User autonomy and privacy are critical.
• Human review enhances automated safety systems.

Method

Users add a contact, who accepts an invitation. Automated systems flag self-harm discussions, followed by human review. If confirmed, a limited, privacy-preserving notification is sent to the Trusted Contact, with expert guidance.

In practice

• Integrate human review into automated safety workflows.
• Offer optional, user-controlled safety features.
• Partner with mental health experts for system design.

Topics

• Trusted Contact
• ChatGPT Safety Features
• Self-Harm Prevention
• Mental Health Support
• AI Safety Alignment

Best for: CTO, VP of Engineering/Data, Director of AI/ML, AI Product Manager, AI Ethicist, Research Scientist

Related on AIssential

• ChatGPT Can Now Alert Someone You Trust If Conversations Turn Dark — ChatGPT's new Trusted Contact feature enables alerts to a designated person for detected self-harm risks.
• OpenAI introduces new ‘Trusted Contact’ safeguard for cases of possible self-harm — OpenAI's new Trusted Contact feature aims to mitigate self-harm risks by alerting a user's designated contact.
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• removing GPT-4o and AI partners — Shaming users for AI companionship is counterproductive to fostering human connection.
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Editorial summary, takeaway, and curation by AIssential. Original article published by OpenAI News.