Trump's acting cyber chief uploaded sensitive files into a public version of ChatGPT

Madhu Gottumukkala, the interim head of CISA, uploaded sensitive "for official use only" documents into ChatGPT, prompting security alerts. This action was controversial as ChatGPT is blocked for other DHS employees. While the documents weren't classified, experts warn that using public AI tools carries risks of data retention and breaches.

Any material uploaded into the public version of ChatGPT, that Gottumukkala was using, is shared with OpenAI, meaning it can be used to help answer prompts from other app users. OpenAI says the app has more than 700 million total active users.

Gottumukkala had requested special permission to use ChatGPT and raised concerns within CISA. His tenure has faced backlash, including staffing losses and scrutiny over his judgment. Six career CISA staff were placed on leave after he failed a counterintelligence polygraph exam.

Overall, his leadership has been described as “a nightmare” by some employees.