# OpenAI removes accounts linked to Russia-based influence operation

_Monday, August 24, 2026 at 8:00 PM EDT · Security, AI · Latest · Tier 2 — Notable_

![OpenAI removes accounts linked to Russia-based influence operation — Primary](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/cEbR4mtnyeS4CXrXrG7ZVi-666-80.jpg)

OpenAI banned a cluster of ChatGPT accounts on August 25 that it linked to operators in Russia running a fake Israeli think tank, according to the company.

OpenAI said the accounts used VPNs to access its services and drafted English-language posts and replies directing audiences to the outlet. It said the accounts did not produce the outlet's articles, most of which OpenAI found had been copied from academics. The company placed the campaign at the lower end of a scale measuring disinformation impact.

## Sources

- [Tom's Hardware](https://www.tomshardware.com/tech-industry/artificial-intelligence/openai-bans-russian-chatgpt-accounts-behind-a-fake-think-tank-pushing-pro-kremlin-narratives)

---
Canonical: https://techandbusiness.org/newswire/5Rg-Z4DM-z_RSboJO0MHcO
Retrieved: 2026-08-26T14:37:35.414Z
Publisher: Tech & Business (techandbusiness.org)