OpenAI Adds Locked Chats to ChatGPT

The new local lock uses a PIN or device biometric to hide selected conversations while OpenAI keeps existing storage and model‑training practices in place.

Overview

OpenAI is rolling out Locked Chats across ChatGPT plans as a new option that moves chosen conversations into a separate, PIN- or biometric-protected folder hidden from the main history and search.
On web and desktop the feature uses a four-digit PIN and on supported mobile devices it uses Face ID, Touch ID, or Android fingerprint sensors for fast unlocking.
Locked Chats keep their own isolated Memory so new details entered inside a locked thread do not update a user’s regular account Memory.
The lock does not add end-to-end encryption or change retention or the account-level setting for using data to improve models, and any memories saved before locking remain accessible to the system.
If a user forgets their PIN and resets it, OpenAI will permanently delete all content stored in Locked Chats, and the feature is unavailable for certain chat types and healthcare accounts.