A recent surge in users generating AI caricatures of themselves has prompted warnings about potential privacy risks, though experts say initial anxieties surrounding data retention may be overstated. The trend, fueled by platforms utilizing artificial intelligence, has quickly gained traction in South Africa, mirroring a global phenomenon.
The concerns center on how user-submitted images and prompts are handled by the AI systems. News24 reported on February 13, 2026, that while risks are real, a viral warning circulating on social media exaggerates the extent of data misuse. Specifically, the report addresses anxieties around ChatGPT, a widely used AI chatbot.
OpenAI, the creator of ChatGPT, has faced scrutiny regarding its data handling practices. In November 2025, the company contested a legal order demanding the handover of millions of ChatGPT conversations as part of a copyright infringement lawsuit, according to News24. This legal battle highlights the ongoing debate about ownership and usage rights of data processed by AI systems.
Further complicating the issue, OpenAI disclosed in October 2025 that over a million ChatGPT users had engaged in conversations relating to suicide, as reported by News24. This revelation underscores the potential for sensitive personal information to be processed by these platforms, raising ethical considerations about data security and user well-being.
Despite these concerns, the use of AI tools like ChatGPT is becoming increasingly prevalent in the South African workforce. News24 reported in September 2025 that employers are actively seeking candidates proficient in AI, positioning it as a valuable skill comparable to expertise in software like Microsoft Excel. This growing demand suggests that AI literacy will be crucial for job seekers in the coming years.
The debate over data privacy extends beyond ChatGPT. The News24 report clarifies that with ChatGPT, user content may be retained to operate the service, but the initial viral warning overstated the risks. The article debunks claims of immediate and widespread data exploitation, while still acknowledging the need for caution.
As of February 14, 2026, OpenAI has not issued a further statement addressing the specific concerns raised by the viral warning regarding AI caricature generation. The company continues to defend its data practices in ongoing legal proceedings.
