LSN News › India

World · India Bureau

ChatGPT rolls out chat hiding and PIN lock features for users

OpenAI's ChatGPT has introduced new privacy controls allowing users to hide and lock conversations with PIN protection, similar to messaging apps like WhatsApp. The feature aims to give users greater control over sensitive or private conversations.

LSN India · 21 October 2026

ChatGPT rolls out chat hiding and PIN lock features for users

ChatGPT users can now secure their conversations using a new hiding and locking mechanism that mirrors privacy features found in popular messaging applications. The update introduces PIN-based protection, enabling users to restrict access to specific chats or entire conversation histories.

The new privacy controls address growing concerns about data sensitivity in AI interactions. Users can now designate certain conversations as private and protect them with a personal identification number, preventing unauthorized access to their chat history even if their device is accessed by others.

To enable the feature, users can set up a PIN through ChatGPT's settings menu. Once configured, the PIN will be required to view locked chats, adding an additional security layer to conversations that users may consider confidential or sensitive in nature.

The rollout reflects broader industry trends toward enhanced privacy controls in consumer applications. As AI tools like ChatGPT become increasingly integrated into daily workflows, platforms are responding to user demands for better data protection and personal privacy management features.

The feature is being gradually deployed to ChatGPT's global user base across web and mobile applications. OpenAI has not disclosed specific timelines for universal availability, but indicated that the privacy enhancement represents an ongoing commitment to user security and data protection.