The US Commerce Department invoked an export control directive against Anthropic, forcing it to take its latest models offline. Security experts criticize the move as heavy-handed and dangerous, calling for its revocation.
The US Commerce Department sent Anthropic an export control directive banning non-Americans, including Anthropic employees, from accessing Fable 5 and Mythos 5 models, citing unspecified national security concerns. Anthropic shut down both models to all customers.
The government did not provide specific details for the directive. Anthropic suspects it relates to a guardrail bypass, but security researchers argue the bypass is not severe enough to warrant export controls. Axios reported that personality differences between Anthropic and the Trump administration played a role.
This action demonstrates the government's ability to force an AI product offline without court approval. Security experts warn that the move weakens US cyber defenses and have called for the order to be revoked.
Comments criticize government control over businesses, arguing the ban contradicts free market principles. Some suggest Anthropic faced repercussions for opposing Trump administration decisions. Overall, there is a strong negative sentiment toward government intervention.