The US government has initiated an inquiry into allegations that sensitive official files were uploaded to ChatGPT, reportedly involving Indian-origin cybersecurity official Madhu Gottumukkala. The development was first reported by Politico, citing multiple officials from the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

Madhu Gottumukkala, who assumed charge as the interim head of the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) in May last year, allegedly sought access to the AI chatbot shortly after taking office. According to officials, the use of such tools is restricted within DHS due to concerns over data security and confidentiality.

Investigators allege that contract-related and other sensitive CISA files were uploaded to the public version of ChatGPT. While Gottumukkala reportedly stated that the uploaded material did not expose classified information, internal cybersecurity monitoring systems flagged the activity in August, prompting a formal review by DHS authorities.

CISA’s Director of Public Affairs, Marcie McCarthy, confirmed that limited permission had been granted for the use of ChatGPT under DHS oversight and for a brief period. However, officials warned that information shared on public AI platforms could potentially be accessed or retained by external entities, including OpenAI, raising concerns about unintended data exposure.