Sam Altman Grindr DMs Fake: OpenAI Confirms Hoax

OpenAI confirms that viral direct messages circulating online, allegedly from CEO Sam Altman, are fake. The DMs suggested Altman was seeking a hookup on Grindr. Comedy musician Jake Schroeder posted screenshots on August 5th, showing supposed messages where Altman claimed to be "lonely and horny." These posts gained nearly 150,000 likes. Schroeder then shared more alleged correspondence, including claims of an offer from OpenAI for "$500 and a branded crew neck." However, an OpenAI spokesperson stated to Vulture, "The posts are fake. We've had no interaction with this person." This fake scandal emerged as Altman faces a legal battle with his sister, Ann Altman. She accuses him of sexual abuse between 1997 and 2006. An informal discovery conference was held on August 3rd, and Ann is scheduled for a deposition on August 17th. Altman denies the allegations and is countersuing for defamation. This story highlights the challenge of distinguishing between online hoaxes and real-world issues.