eSAFETY GUIDE

ChatGPT

13+
Minimum age according to OpenAI
13+ Minimum age according to OpenAI

What is ChatGPT?

ChatGPT is an artificial intelligence (AI) chatbot developed by OpenAI. An AI chatbot is a computer program that can have conversations with people by understanding what they type, and responding in a human-like way.

You can talk with ChatGPT via text or voice. ChatGPT is commonly used for things like brainstorming ideas, creating lists, writing text, conversation and personal support. The latest ChatGPT model is GPT-5.6.

You can also create images on ChatGPT from a written description or prompt. For example, if you ask it to ‘create an image of a puppy wearing a scarf’, ChatGPT will return an image that matches this description. It can also edit existing images by changing or removing parts of a picture.

The ‘GPT’ in ChatGPT stands for ‘Generative Pre-trained Transformer’. ‘Generative’ means it can create new text, rather than just retrieve information. ‘Pre-trained’ refers to the large amounts of code, text and information (from the internet and books) that it is trained on. ‘Transformer’ refers to the specific design of the neural network that allows it to process language effectively. A neural network is a kind of artificial intelligence that teaches computers to process information in a way that is loosely based on how the human brain works.

ChatGPT has certain limitations, as OpenAI makes clear, including sometimes writing answers that sound believable but are factually inaccurate, giving biased responses and the risk that they may action inappropriate or harmful requests. They may also infringe intellectual copyright by incorporating content without permission and not attributing content.

ChatGPT has a number of different subscription options, including free, plus, pro, business and enterprise. These different subscription options each come with different features.

ChatGPT and is also available as an API (application programming interface) which means it can be integrated into other apps, websites and online services.

Parents and carers can also use parental controls to manage some settings for their child's ChatGPT account, such as setting specific hours for when they can use the chatbot, as well as limiting age-inappropriate content in chats. They cannot read their child's conversations. These controls also include a safety notification feature, where a notification is sent to parents and carers if ChatGPT detects that they might be at risk of serious self-harm.

ChatGPT has an optional safety feature for adults called 'Trusted Contact'. Users aged 18 and older can nominate a person they trust, who must agree to take on the role. This feature will notify the trusted contact if ChatGPT detects that the person has serious self-harm concerns.

Some AI chatbots can be used as companions, which can have particular risks for children and young people. For more information, see our online safety advisory.

Be aware that fake ChatGPT websites and apps exist. Some of these display adult ads and are not part of OpenAI.

Websites: ChatGPT

How do people use ChatGPT?

Learn more about the benefits and risks associated with how people use AI chatbots like ChatGPT and GPT-4.

ChatGPT and GPT-4 are used for: encrypted, gaming, in-app purchasing, location sharing, messaging/online chat, screen capture and voice chat.

How can you ask for content to be removed and protect your personal information?

This link is provided by OpenAI:

  • Manage your data
    Outlines ways to manage your data, including turning off your chat history and choosing which conversations can be used to train AI models.

Key safety links

These links are provided by OpenAI:

  • Terms of use
    The terms of use you agree to when using OpenAI’s products.
  • Privacy policy
    How OpenAI uses your personal information and geo-location data.
  • Service terms
    Additional terms related to OpenAI’s early access or beta services.
  • Plugin terms
    How third-party services can use OpenAI’s services.
  • Security and privacy
    How OpenAI aims to safeguard users and protect their security and privacy.
  • Safety
    OpenAI’s statement on developing safe and responsible AI.
  • Charter
    OpenAI’s charter outlining the principles they use to shape their use and development of AI.
  • Parental controls
    Information about the parental controls available on ChatGPT.
  • Trusted Contact feature
    Information about ChatGPT's 'Trusted Contact' safety feature.

Related eSafety links

Find other resources to help keep you safe online:

Other eSafety Guides:

About this Guide

This guide is provided by the eSafety Commissioner to help people stay safe online and better understand digital platforms.

Social media changes

From 10 December 2025, certain social media platforms are not allowed to let Australian children under 16 create or keep an account.

Find out more at eSafety’s social media age restrictions hub.

About The eSafety Guide

The eSafety Guide helps you find out how to protect your personal information and report harmful content on common social media, games, apps and sites. Entries are for information only and are not reviews, endorsements or assessments against any legislative definition by eSafety. Before choosing to use any online service or platform it’s best to:

  • do your own research to understand the risks and benefits
  • check the age rating and requirements
  • consider privacy
  • check the permissions and other settings
  • check the in-app reporting options.

If you are a parent or carer who is deciding whether a child should be allowed to use an online service or platform, you can also:

  • consider your child's readiness for the types of content and experiences they might encounter
  • help them understand what to do if they need help
  • provide ongoing support and monitoring, for example through regular check-ins with your child
  • agree to some rules about use of each service or platform.

To find out more, you can read the App checklist for parents, as well as information about parental controls in social media, games and apps and mental wellbeing resources for families.