OpenAI announced that Thomas Lin has been hired as the new leader who will handle cyber and strategic risk operations. Lin will join the OpenAI National Security Policy team starting on October 2, 2026, taking overall responsibility for building and operating AI‑based cyber defense systems.
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security issued Executive Order No. 14409 on June 2, 2026, strengthening cyber defense in federal information systems and expanding access to AI‑based defense tools and cybersecurity services. The order establishes a system that cooperates with industry and voluntarily finds and fixes software vulnerabilities; it also states the government does not intend to license or create a pre‑approval system for AI models.
OpenAI’s cyber defense plan announced in April 2026 outlined cooperation between government and industry, strengthening advanced cyber capabilities, and controlling the distribution process. In July, OpenAI released its national security principles stating democratic accountability, human judgment, and legal compliance.
This AI policy shift confirms Lin's role and responsibilities; specific powers and future plans are not yet disclosed. OpenAI has announced a plan to test high‑capability models and strengthen security controls, and said it will evaluate high‑risk cyber capabilities and enhance related security controls.