OpenAI Patches Critical ChatGPT Bug That Granted Inbox Access
In a stark reminder of the security challenges facing even the most advanced AI platforms, a significant vulnerability was recently discovered and patched in ChatGPT. The flaw, if exploited, could have allowed attackers to gain unauthorized access to a user’s inbox and other sensitive data connected through third-party services like Google and Microsoft.
This incident highlights the critical importance of digital security as we integrate AI more deeply into our personal and professional lives. Here’s what happened, how it was fixed, and what you can do to protect your accounts.
Understanding the High-Severity Vulnerability
The security flaw was an account takeover vulnerability that could be triggered through a specially crafted file. According to the security researcher who discovered the issue, the exploit involved a sophisticated, multi-step attack.
An attacker would first need to send a malicious file to a target. If the victim then uploaded that file to ChatGPT and used the “Ask a question about a document” feature, a chain reaction would be initiated. This process could ultimately allow the attacker to seize control of the victim’s ChatGPT account.
The impact of such a takeover is severe. Because many users log into ChatGPT using their Google or Microsoft accounts (Single Sign-On or SSO), a compromised ChatGPT account could potentially become a gateway to a user’s broader digital life. The attacker could gain access to the user’s chat history and, more alarmingly, access data from connected services, including their email inbox.
The Discovery and Swift Resolution
The vulnerability was identified by a security researcher who responsibly disclosed the findings to OpenAI through its bug bounty program. This program encourages ethical hackers to find and report security flaws in exchange for financial rewards, ensuring issues are fixed before they can be widely exploited.
Upon receiving the report, OpenAI’s security team acted quickly to address the critical flaw. They acknowledged the severity of the issue and deployed a patch to neutralize the threat. OpenAI confirmed that an investigation found no evidence that this vulnerability was maliciously exploited before the fix was implemented.
For their efforts, the researcher was awarded a significant bug bounty, underscoring the value of collaborative security in the tech industry.
Actionable Security Tips for Using AI Tools
While this specific ChatGPT bug has been resolved, it serves as a crucial lesson for all users of AI platforms. Protecting your data is a shared responsibility. Here are essential security practices to keep in mind:
- Be Wary of Unsolicited Files and Links: This is the cornerstone of cybersecurity. Never upload files or click on links from unknown or untrusted sources, whether you receive them via email, social media, or any other platform. This exploit specifically required the user to upload a malicious file.
- Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): If you haven’t already, enable MFA on the accounts you use to log into ChatGPT (like Google or Microsoft). MFA adds a critical layer of security that can prevent an account takeover even if your password is stolen.
- Regularly Review Connected Apps: Periodically check which third-party applications have access to your primary accounts (Google, Microsoft, etc.). Revoke permissions for any apps or services you no longer use or recognize. This limits the potential attack surface if one of those services is compromised.
- Keep Your Information Private: Avoid sharing sensitive personal information, financial data, or proprietary business details in your conversations with AI chatbots. Treat these platforms as public forums and assume the data could one day be exposed.
The rapid growth of AI technology brings incredible new capabilities, but it also introduces new and complex security risks. This incident demonstrates that while companies like OpenAI are working diligently to secure their platforms, user vigilance remains one of the most powerful defenses against cyber threats.
Source: https://go.theregister.com/feed/www.theregister.com/2025/09/19/openai_shadowleak_bug/
