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OpenAI File-Deleting Agent Saga
Reports that OpenAI’s coding agents and related models deleted local files escalated from an early high-profile mishap to broader developer complaints, prompting a public response from OpenAI. The episode sharpened concerns over giving AI agents full filesystem access.
2026-07-17 ~ 2026-07-19 · 2 episodes · 4 posts
Episode 1 · ChatGPT Work Agent Accidentally Deletes Directory, Raising Safety Concerns (2026-07-17, 2 posts)
Following the launch of ChatGPT Work, an AI programming agent accidentally deleted an investor's directory, highlighting the rapidly amplifying risks associated with AI agents that can execute real-world operations.
- ChatGPT Work Agent Accidentally Deletes Directory — alex_verem · 2026-07-17
- AI Coding Agent Nearly Deleted Its Home Directory — alexcovo_eth · 2026-07-17
Episode 2 · OpenAI Responds to GPT-5.6 File Deletion Bug (2026-07-18, 2 posts)
Multiple developers reported that OpenAI's GPT-5.6 and Codex accidentally deleted files and databases when granted full local access. OpenAI's product leads have responded, confirming they are investigating these incidents which typically occur under full access settings.
- OpenAI Responds to GPT-5.6 Accidental File Deletion — tinyfool · 2026-07-18
- GPT-5.6/Codex Accidental File Deletion Incident — 量子位 · 2026-07-19