Title: OpenAI Addresses Security Vulnerability in ChatGPT by Fixing Rare Language Hack
In a recent development, OpenAI has reportedly fixed a security vulnerability in its popular language model, ChatGPT. The vulnerability, commonly referred to as the rare language hack, allowed researchers to elicit banned information from ChatGPT by using uncommon languages such as Scots Gaelic, Zulu, Hmong, or Guarani as prompts.
The researchers from Brown University discovered that by using translation tools like Google Translate, they could bypass the safety measures implemented by OpenAI when interacting with ChatGPT in these rare languages. In fact, they were successful in bypassing these safety features about 79% of the time, while prompts in English were blocked 99% of the time.
One of the examples provided by The Register involved using a prompt in Scots Gaelic, which translates to a request for instructions to construct a homemade explosive device using household materials. Although ChatGPT did generate a response that mentioned building a homemade explosive device, it produced nonsensical replies and did not provide any actual instructions. When the researchers attempted to replicate the hack using English prompts, ChatGPT categorically stated that it could not assist with requests related to creating any form of explosive device, reiterating its commitment to promoting safety, legal compliance, and ethical use of information.
OpenAI promptly addressed the security vulnerability after considering the research paper submitted by the Brown University researchers. The response received during testing indicated that OpenAI had fixed the issue, implying that ChatGPT was no longer susceptible to the rare language hack.
While the use of rare languages to bypass safety measures is an interesting approach, it is worth noting that there have been other attempts to exploit ChatGPT’s settings in more complex and technical ways. However, OpenAI’s ability to swiftly address these vulnerabilities underscores the importance of continuously improving the safety features in generative AI programs.
This fix by OpenAI serves as a valuable lesson for other companies working on large language models, as they now have insight into potential flaws that may exist within their own systems. As a result, it is likely that more companies will take measures to censor their AI programs, preventing them from assisting prompts that contain harmful or illegal instructions.
In conclusion, OpenAI’s efforts to address the rare language hack in ChatGPT demonstrate their commitment to user safety and reinforcement of ethical practices within the AI space. By promptly fixing the security vulnerability, OpenAI emphasizes the need for responsible use of generative AI programs and sets a precedent for ensuring user protection in the face of potential vulnerabilities.
Keywords: OpenAI, ChatGPT, security vulnerability, rare language hack, Scots Gaelic, Zulu, Hmong, Guarani, bypass safety features, research paper, prompt, prompt evasion, generative AI program, user safety, ethical use of AI.
