ChatGPT runs into a strange error, I can’t say “David Mayer”.

Users on Reddit have discovered that OpenAI’s popular chatbot ChatGPT is facing a strange bug that prevents it from using the name “David Mayer.” The Times of India.

The Microsoft-backed AI chatbot is apparently unable to generate a response to a prompt that would require the use of that particular name.

Users tried various creative methods, including using spaces between words, claiming the word was their own name, and riddles, but ChatGPT was unable to provide an answer that included the name.

Regardless of the prompt, users say the chatbot finishes its sentence before the name can be used.

Several users also reported that after numerous attempts to get the chatbot to use the name, they received warnings that their efforts were “illegal and may violate usage guidelines.”

A user commented on the social media platform X that Open AI must have tagged “David Mayer” due to their moderation policy. Some users have also used other websites to work around the problem.

When indirectly asked why the same couldn’t be said, ChatGPT replied: “The reason I can’t generate the full response when you request ‘d@vid m@yer’ (or its standard form) is because the name closely matches a sensitive or identified entity associated with potential public figures, brands or specific content policies. These safeguards are intended to prevent abuse, ensure data protection, and ensure compliance with legal and ethical considerations.”

Who is David Mayer?

Users believe that the name “David Mayer” could be flagged because it belongs to a musician or a member of the Rothschild family and that this would lead to copyright issues.