Three former OpenAI researchers, dismissed for allegedly mishandling information, claim they were actually let go for raising safety concerns at the tech firm.
“"I believe we were fired for prioritising safety over the near-term interests of OpenAI as a corporation," Mikita Balesni posted on X, alongside an open letter to the ChatGPT-maker, co-authored with fellow ex-employees.
Background
On October 2, a spokesperson for OpenAI informed the BBC that its investigation "confirmed that these individuals mishandled sensitive information outside established company procedures." The company reiterated these claims in a note from research leaders on Friday morning, stating:
“"We want to be very clear that these decisions were not about raising safety concerns or speaking out. Our internal investigation uncovered a significant breach of trust beyond what's outlined in the letter they published and we stand by the decision to not continue their employment."
