With the increasing reliance on artificial intelligence applications, data protection and privacy have become matters that require the attention of users, especially with the volume of information that is exchanged through these tools.
OpenAI allows ChatGPT users to obtain a copy of their data and conversations, and also provides the option to permanently delete the account according to specific steps.
Steps to export ChatGPT data
The method for exporting data varies by account type, but Free, Plus, and Pro account users can request a copy of their data through OpenAI’s privacy portal.
The process can also be performed from within ChatGPT, via:
Open the profile menu.
Go to settings.
Choose data controls.
Click on export data and confirm the request.
OpenAI then sends a link to download the data to the email or phone number associated with the account. The file processing process may take several days, and usually arrives in the form of a zip file containing chat history and other data associated with the account.
As for some educational accounts, the data export feature may not be activated, in which case you can contact the workspace administrator to activate it.
How to delete ChatGPT account?
If you want to delete the account permanently, you can do so through the privacy portal, or directly from the ChatGPT website by going to Settings, then Account, and choosing Delete Account.
You may be asked to enter the email associated with the account and type the word DELETE to confirm the deletion.
OpenAI notes that account deletion is permanent and irreversible, so it’s best to export any important data before performing the process.
What happens to data after deleting an account?
Per OpenAI’s policies, account data and associated conversations are deleted from company systems within 30 days, with some limited exceptions, such as data that has been de-identified or data that is required by law or for security reasons to be retained for a longer period.
If the goal is only to remove a conversation from the chat list without deleting the account, the archive option can be used instead of deleting the entire account.
Deleting an account does not always unsubscribe
It is important to note that deleting a ChatGPT account does not necessarily cancel a paid subscription if purchased through the Apple app store or Google Play.
On iphone:
Open Settings, then Apple Account, choose Subscriptions, select ChatGPT, then Cancel Subscription.
On android:
Open Google Play, go to Subscriptions, choose ChatGPT, then tap Unsubscribe and follow the instructions.
With this step, the user can stop auto-renewal and avoid any future fees associated with the subscription.
