# OpenAI bans Russian-linked ChatGPT accounts tied to influence operation

_Published Tuesday, August 25, 2026 at 10:07 AM EDT · Security · Latest · Tier 2 — Notable_

OpenAI banned a cluster of ChatGPT accounts originating in Russia that it said used VPNs to evade restrictions and support a covert online influence campaign. The accounts were used to create social-media comments, according to a CNBC report summarized by Techmeme.

## Sources

- [Techmeme](https://www.techmeme.com/260825/p13#a260825p13)
- [The Hacker News](https://thehackernews.com/2026/08/openai-bans-russian-chatgpt-accounts.html)

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Canonical: https://techandbusiness.org/newswire/w0cXvpi1aj2fB6_EZTi0P-
Published: 2026-08-25T14:07:06.454Z
Story chronology: 2026-08-25T12:05:02.000Z
Retrieved: 2026-10-09T19:44:30.152Z
Publisher: Tech & Business (techandbusiness.org)