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OpenAI's AI Deal Sparks Backlash Over Surveillance Fears

2/28/2026

Summary

Story summary

OpenAI's CEO Sam Altman announced a deal with U.S. Department of War to deploy AI on classified networks.
Online backlash followed, with Reddit and X users calling for ChatGPT cancellations over surveillance and weapons concerns.
Altman claimed the Department of War respects safety, but critics doubt it after Anthropic's refusal to work with the Pentagon.
Critics say the agreement could enable surveillance of U.S. citizens, fueling the Cancel ChatGPT movement.

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Story summary

OpenAI's CEO Sam Altman announced a deal with U.S. Department of War to deploy AI on classified networks.
Online backlash followed, with Reddit and X users calling for ChatGPT cancellations over surveillance and weapons concerns.
Altman claimed the Department of War respects safety, but critics doubt it after Anthropic's refusal to work with the Pentagon.
Critics say the agreement could enable surveillance of U.S. citizens, fueling the Cancel ChatGPT movement.