OpenAI Introduces Chat-Locking Feature for ChatGPT
OpenAI announced a new chat-locking feature for ChatGPT that allows users to protect sensitive conversations using a four-digit PIN or biometric authentication such as Face ID and Touch ID. The feature is rolling out gradually to users across almost all subscription tiers starting Tuesday. This update adds an essential layer of local privacy for individuals who frequently share their devices with family or friends while using ChatGPT for personal discussions. It addresses growing security needs as AI assistants store increasingly sensitive, personal data. Locked chats are moved to a dedicated section with isolated memory spaces that do not leak into general chats, but the feature does not implement end-to-end encryption or change data retention policies. Furthermore, resetting the PIN will permanently delete all content protected by the old PIN.
## BACKGROUND
As AI chatbots become central to daily productivity and personal communication, users increasingly rely on them for confidential matters, making local device privacy controls critical. Previously, temporary chats were the primary alternative for privacy, but they completely omitted chat history rather than protecting persistent conversations.