ChatGPT Personal Finance Feature Brings Help but Privacy Questions

OpenAI has added a new Personal Finance feature to ChatGPT for some users in the United States. The tool is now in preview for ChatGPT Pro users.

The new feature lets people connect their bank and credit card accounts through Plaid. Plaid works with more than 12,000 financial groups. ChatGPT can then look at spending, help make a budget, track bills and give money tips.

OpenAI says the feature has read only access. This means ChatGPT cannot send money, buy stocks or make payments. Users can also remove their linked accounts and delete their chat history if they want.

Privacy experts say people should still be careful. They warn users not to share passwords, Social Security numbers, tax papers or credit card details with AI chatbots. They say this kind of data should stay private.

Experts also say ChatGPT is different from many budgeting apps. Because it is a chat tool, people may share more personal details than they plan to. This can include money worries, debt, family costs or health bills.

OpenAI says the new tool is made to help people understand their money better. It is not meant to replace a financial expert.

The new feature may make budgeting easier for many users. Still, experts say the best way to stay safe is to use AI for simple money help and keep very private information out of chats.