ChatGPT – just because you create something doesn’t mean it’s legal to use it

Everyone is talking about AI (artificial intelligence).  Programs such as ChatGPT (to create text), https://openai.com/blog/chatgpt,  and Artiphoria AI (to create images), https://www.artiphoria.ai/, are readily available.  There are many others available.  See, for example, https://www.pcguide.com/apps/chat-gpt-alternative/, for both free programs and paid versions.  However, there are things to keep in mind when using these programs.  First, just because you create something using AI does not mean that you can use it legally or ethically, depending on the circumstances.  There are possible copyright issues, possible plagiarism issues, and the very real possibility that what is created is so inaccurate as to be virtually useless (remember GIGO – garbage in, garbage out).  Without examining the sources of the information for what the AI programs create, you have little chance to determine the possible accuracy of the output.  A simple test is to ask ChatGPT to create your résumé (CV).  Before using AI for any purpose other than curiosity, and before using the results, you should consult with an intellectual property  attorney for guidance.  All attorneys in our firm are registered patent attorneys and can help clients with AI issues.

Seth M. Nehrbass, Patent Attorney, New Orleans, 12 June 2023, SNehrbass@patents.gs, 504-813-8815.