Curated and analyzed by the JobGoneToAI team. Original reporting by el-balad.com.
Sam Altman Warns Against 'AI Washing' in Layoffs

— el-balad.com
Key Takeaway
Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, criticizes companies for using AI as a justification for layoffs, suggesting that many firms may be using it as a scapegoat for pre-planned job cuts. He acknowledges the potential for AI to displace jobs while also highlighting the emergence of new opportunities in the job market.
From the Original Report
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22 Feb 2026 Home
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Sam Altman Criticizes Companies for Using AI to Justify Layoffs
Business
Sam Altman Criticizes Companies for Using AI to Justify Layoffs
Bassyonni
Published: February 20, 2026 8:55 AM ET
Sam Altman, the CEO of OpenAI, has voiced concerns over companies attributing layoffs to artificial intelligence (AI). He highlighted that many firms may use AI as a scapegoat for job cuts that were planned regardless of technological advances.
AI and the Job Market Impact
In an interview with CNBC-TV18 during the India AI Impact Summit, Altman addressed the concept of “AI washing.” This term refers to companies exaggerating the influence of AI to justify employee reductions. While Altman could not specify how many companies were engaging in this practice, he emphasized its existence.
Future Projections of Job Displacement
This is an excerpt. Read the full article at el-balad.com.
Original Source
Read original reporting at el-balad.comJobGoneToAI curates, verifies, and adds original analysis to third-party reporting. We link to the original source so you can verify the facts yourself.
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