The Register: OpenAI says models are programmed to make stuff up instead of admitting ignorance

Sep 17, 2025

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Source URL: https://www.theregister.com/2025/09/17/openai_hallucinations_incentives/
Source: The Register
Title: OpenAI says models are programmed to make stuff up instead of admitting ignorance

Feedly Summary: Even a wrong answer is right some of the time
AI models often produce false outputs, or “hallucinations." Now OpenAI has admitted they may result from fundamental mistakes it makes when training its models.…

AI Summary and Description: Yes

Summary: The text highlights a critical issue in AI models, specifically regarding the occurrence of false outputs or “hallucinations.” OpenAI’s admission of these inaccuracies presents a significant concern for professionals in AI security and compliance, particularly due to the implications for trustworthiness and reliability in AI-driven solutions.

Detailed Description: The text addresses the phenomenon of incorrect outputs generated by AI models, which is an important topic for AI security professionals and developers alike. The acknowledgment from OpenAI regarding the potential foundational causes of these errors sheds light on the ongoing challenges within AI model training and deployment. Key points include:

– **False Outputs (Hallucinations)**: AI models, including those developed by OpenAI, can produce outputs that are not grounded in reality or factual data, leading to misinformation.
– **Training Mistakes**: The source of these inaccuracies may stem from fundamental mistakes during the training of AI models, indicating a need for enhanced training methodologies and data verification processes.
– **Trust and Reliability**: The admission raises questions about the reliability of AI systems, which is crucial for applications in sensitive domains such as healthcare, finance, and legal matters where accuracy is paramount.

This information is particularly relevant for security and compliance professionals, as they must consider the implications of such inaccuracies when integrating AI into their systems and processes. The potential for misinformation can lead to significant risks, including reputational damage, regulatory breaches, and loss of user trust. Thus, understanding and mitigating these risks is essential for the responsible deployment of AI technology.

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