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Tech
May 01, 2026
Analyzed by GPT OSS 120B

OpenAI Restricts Access to Cyber After Criticizing Anthropic’s Mythos

AI Summary
OpenAI announced it will limit the rollout of its new cybersecurity tool Cyber to a handful of vetted defenders, echoing Anthropic’s earlier restriction of Mythos. The move, framed as a safety measure, raises questions about AI‑driven security tools and their potential misuse.

In a Thursday post on X, Sam Altman confirmed that OpenAI will begin a controlled release of its GPT‑5.5‑powered cybersecurity suite, Cyber, to “critical cyber defenders” after publicly criticizing Anthropic for limiting access to its own tool, Mythos.

OpenAI Mirrors Anthropic’s Gatekeeping with Cyber

The announcement marks a clear shift from OpenAI’s earlier open‑access stance on its AI models. By restricting Cyber, the company aligns itself with Anthropic’s approach, positioning the limitation as a responsible safeguard against misuse.

Application Process and Core Capabilities

  • Prospective users must submit a detailed application outlining credentials, organizational role, and intended use cases.
  • Cyber is designed for penetration testing, vulnerability identification (including exploitation), and malware reverse engineering.
  • The toolkit aims to help enterprises discover security gaps and validate defenses before adversaries can exploit them.

Security Community Reactions and Market Implications

Industry observers see the move as both a protective measure and a competitive signal. While some praise the caution, others worry that limiting access could slow broader adoption of AI‑enhanced security solutions and give rivals a strategic edge.

What’s Next for AI‑Powered Cyber Tools?

OpenAI has indicated plans to broaden Cyber’s availability after consulting with U.S. government agencies and verifying user legitimacy. The trajectory suggests a phased expansion, with potential policy frameworks shaping how AI security tools are deployed across the sector.