Why ChatGPT can’t lock GPTs
and what to do instead
If you are trying to sell a GPT, keep it private, or stop abuse, you need to know a hard truth: ChatGPT does not currently provide a way to lock access, limit usage, or enforce billing for custom GPTs.
Posted: 2025-12-28 • Category: Secure GPT Access
What people mean by “locking a GPT”
Most creators are asking for the same set of controls: authenticated users only, usage limits, monetization, and a way to revoke access when someone stops paying (or abuses the tool).
What ChatGPT does not provide (today)
Custom GPTs are powerful, but the platform does not give you an enforcement layer. In practical terms, that means you do not get:
- Per-user authentication you control
- Response-based usage limits that you enforce
- Subscription or payment enforcement
- Revocable access for shared links
- Reliable usage analytics for your customers
Why “just keep it secret” does not work
When someone has access to the GPT, you are relying on trust. “Do not share the link” is not security. It is a request. If you plan to sell access, you need enforcement, not wishes.
What works instead
If you want secure GPT access, you need to put the GPT behind an access layer you control. That layer should handle:
- Authentication (who is allowed)
- Authorization (what plan they have)
- Usage limits (how much they can use)
- Billing status (who is paid up)
- Revocation (cut off bad actors)
LockedGPT is a platform designed specifically to secure, control, and monetize access to custom GPTs using real API-based enforcement.