This page may contain stale information. Last updated: 2026-06-01
Definition
The Trusted Access for Cyber (TAC) program is OpenAI’s controlled access framework for cybersecurity professionals to use specialized AI models for authorized security research and defensive operations. It was launched alongside GPT-5.5-Cyber on May 7, 2026.
Contradiction
openai and this page cite GPT-5.5-Cyber/TAC launch on 2026-05-07, while pipeline source 2026-05-08-openai-gpt-55-cyber-release uses slug date 2026-05-08. Verify exact announcement date against OpenAI official release.
Overview
TAC addresses the dual-use nature of advanced AI cybersecurity capabilities by implementing tiered verification and strict safeguards. The program is specifically designed to empower “defenders” - government agencies, critical infrastructure providers, and enterprise security teams.
Program Structure
Tiered Verification
Access levels are granted based on:
- Verified identity
- Organizational affiliation
- Use case justification
Higher tiers unlock more advanced capabilities:
- Basic vulnerability research
- Penetration testing assistance
- Red-teaming exercises
- Exploit development for authorized assessments
Partner Organizations
Initial TAC program partners include:
- Cisco
- Intel
- Snyk
Individual security professionals can verify via chatgpt.com/cyber.
Strategic Context
OpenAI’s TAC program is viewed as a direct competitive response to Anthropic’s Claude Mythos and Project Glasswing initiative. Together, they represent the “AI cybersecurity arms race” in 2026.
Five-Pillar Action Plan
In late April 2026, OpenAI unveiled a strategy to “democratize AI-powered cyber defense”:
- Democratizing Defense: Scale TAC to support thousands of defenders globally
- Coordination: Collaborate with governments and industry on threat models
- Capability Strengthening: Improve model performance for defensive tasks
- Visibility and Control: Monitor for potential misuse, maintain “post-launch levers”
- User Empowerment: Integrate security features into ChatGPT for general users