Why shouldn't I use ChatGPT as a search engine?

ChatGPT can be unreliable as a primary search engine because, without its web search feature turned on, it answers from training data that has a cutoff date and can state incorrect information confidently, a known issue often called hallucination.

Even with search enabled, it may summarize a small number of sources rather than surveying the breadth of results a traditional search engine returns, which can miss niche or highly current information. For fast moving topics like prices, breaking news, or recent product changes, a live search engine is generally more reliable.

ChatGPT still works well for exploratory research and explaining concepts, but treating every answer as verified fact is a mistake worth avoiding for anything important.

Make sure your own content is accurate enough to be cited safely with GEO software.