VPNs hide location but AI companies still see device data and user content
TechRadar reports that while VPNs mask IP addresses, OpenAI and Anthropic collect device metadata and conversation content regardless of encryption.
Data collected by chatbot platforms
OpenAI states its policy allows collection of IP addresses, device identifiers, cookies, email, and payment details. Anthropic follows a similar approach by gathering location data, connection details, and usage patterns on mobile apps. Both companies can determine approximate geographic location and the specific browser or operating system used for access.
Limits of network encryption
A virtual private network successfully masks a user's real IP address from the AI platform. However, the best available VPNs cannot stop these companies from reading, storing, and learning from typed messages. Encryption protects traffic from internet providers but does not prevent the destination server from inspecting the content.
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