OpenAI says it didn't fire three researchers for "raising safety concerns or speaking out", but for violating "clear policies on handling sensitive information" (Michael Considine/CNBC)

OpenAI has defended its decision to fire three safety researchers, stating that an investigation revealed they "violated clear policies on handling sensitive information." The company clarified that the dismissals were not due to the researchers "raising safety concerns or speaking out," but rather for committing a "significant breach of trust" by violating established protocols regarding sensitive data.