So last night I was testing a new context window builder in my application.
The result was that I didn’t build a context window, but I still made an LLM call.
What happened was I got a lengthy response from the LLM on some topic that was seemingly completely random, but highly structured as if the LLM had received a real prompt from me.
I sent a blank context window that contained ZERO role: user or role: assistant messages in the context window, only a role: developer message with the line “LUCID SYSTEM 3D CONTEXT WINDOW”.
I sent these calls to gpt4.1 over the completions endpoint.
I thought that this might warrant some attention as what it truly seems like is happening to me is that I’m somehow getting a response from the LLM that theoretically is either being generated out of complete thing air with no prompt (how is this possible?) or somehow an LLM response from a totally separate API call from someone elses API key is either being duplicated (or intercepted??) and provided back as a response in my API call?
Never seen anything like this before.
Check out the full logs below. Enclosing each run in a details/summary block below.
Note, none of this content is topically related to anything I’ve ever used the GPT for. And I confirmed at all levels of my system, that indeed essentially I prompted the LLM with essentially a blank context window.
run #1
[4/28/2025, 1:50:07 AM] OpenAI API Log Log ID: 5402 | Conversation ID: 11816 | Thread ID: 987 Request / Response MetadataRequest Model: gpt-4.1
Usage: Prompt: 19, Completion: 101, Total: 120
Request Messages
Message #1 | Role: system
LUCID SYSTEM 3D CONTEXT WINDOW
Response Messages
Choice #1 | Role: assistant
Certainly! Here’s a sample reply to an email from an employer who sent you onboarding forms:
Subject: Re: Onboarding Forms Received
Dear [Employer’s Name],
Thank you for sending over the onboarding forms. I have received them and will complete and return them as soon as possible.
Please let me know if there are any additional documents or information you need from me at this time.
Looking forward to starting!
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Feel free to personalize it further!
run #2
[4/28/2025, 1:48:32 AM] OpenAI API Log Log ID: 5401 | Conversation ID: 11815 | Thread ID: 987 Request / Response MetadataRequest Model: gpt-4.1
Usage: Prompt: 19, Completion: 826, Total: 845
Request Messages
Message #1 | Role: system
LUCID SYSTEM 3D CONTEXT WINDOW
Response Messages
Choice #1 | Role: assistant
Absolutely, here is an affiliate marketing plan tailored specifically for promoting software products:
Affiliate Marketing Plan for Software Products
1. Define Your Target Audience
- Identify Ideal User: Decide if you’re targeting individuals (e.g., freelancers, students) or businesses (e.g., SMBs, enterprises).
- User Pain Points: What problems does this software solve? (e.g., productivity, security, design needs)
2. Choose the Right Software Products
- Focus Area: Select software in a niche you understand (e.g., SaaS productivity tools, design software, security apps).
- Research Programs: Look for reputable affiliate programs with high commission rates (15–50% is common for software/SaaS).
- Examples: HubSpot, Adobe, FreshBooks, NordVPN, SEMrush, Microsoft 365, Shopify.
3. Join Affiliate Programs
- Official Programs: Apply directly through the software’s website or via networks like Impact, ShareASale, CJ Affiliate, PartnerStack.
- Track Links: Use the unique tracking links provided for each product.
4. Content Strategy
A. Content Types
- In-depth Reviews: Write or record honest reviews with pros and cons.
- Tutorials/How-to Guides: Show step-by-step usage and share tips.
- Comparison Posts: Compare with competitors (“X vs. Y: Which is Best?”)
- Case Studies: Share real-world results from using the software.
- Listicles: “Top 5 Best [Category] Tools in 2024”
- YouTube Demos: Record video walk-throughs and feature highlights.
B. SEO Tactics
- Keyword research for buyer intent terms: “[Software] review,” “Best [category] software,” “How to use [software].”
- Optimize titles, meta descriptions, and include affiliate disclosures.
5. Build an Audience & Drive Traffic
- Blog: Publish regular, high-quality posts targeting your niche.
- YouTube: Film demo/review/tutorial videos (add affiliate links in descriptions).
- Email List: Create a simple lead magnet (free eBook, cheat sheet) and send regular updates with affiliate recommendations.
- Social Media: Post tips, quick demos, or infographics on Twitter, LinkedIn, etc.
- Webinars & Live Streams: Host Q&A sessions or product demos.
6. Conversion Optimization
- CTAs: Use clear calls-to-action (“Try [Software] free for 30 days”).
- Bonuses: Offer bonuses (a free guide, onboarding call) for those using your affiliate link.
- Exit-Intent Popups: Suggest software or collect emails before visitors leave.
7. Track & Optimize
- Analytics: Use Google Analytics and affiliate dashboards to monitor clicks, conversions, and revenue.
- A/B Testing: Try different content types, CTAs, and placements.
- Retargeting: Use Facebook/Google retargeting ads to bring back visitors.
8. Compliance & Relationship Building
- Disclosures: Clearly disclose affiliate relationships (required by FTC).
- Stay Updated: Join affiliate newsletters to learn about software updates, exclusive deals, new features.
- Feedback Loop: Provide product feedback to software companies and request promo codes or exclusive deals for your audience.
Example Workflow
- Research and join 3 high-commission software affiliate programs.
- Publish a detailed review and a comparison article each month.
- Film a monthly YouTube tutorial for one software.
- Build an email list via a lead magnet and send monthly “tool of the month” emails.
- Track best-performing content and double down efforts.
Tip: Focus on software with recurring commissions (SaaS subscriptions) for steady passive income.
Let me know your niche or if you want sample content outlines, email templates, or a list of top affiliate programs for your vertical!
run #3
[4/28/2025, 1:51:28 AM] OpenAI API Log Log ID: 5403 | Conversation ID: 11817 | Thread ID: 987 Request / Response MetadataRequest Model: gpt-4.1
Usage: Prompt: 19, Completion: 1163, Total: 1182
Request Messages
Message #1 | Role: system
LUCID SYSTEM 3D CONTEXT WINDOW
Response Messages
Choice #1 | Role: assistant
Absolutely, here’s a detailed comparison between the Cybertruck (from Tesla) and the Hummer EV (from GMC) as of 2024. I’ll break down their specifications, features, pros & cons, and give a summary table.
1. Powertrain & Performance
Feature | Cybertruck (Tri-Motor AWD) | Hummer EV (Edition 1) |
---|---|---|
Motors | 3 | 3 |
Horsepower | ~845 hp | 1,000 hp |
0-60 mph | ~2.6 seconds | ~3.0 seconds |
Torque | Unspecified (massive) | 11,500 lb-ft* (wheel) |
Drive | All-wheel drive | All-wheel drive |
*GM’s torque figure is at the wheels and not directly comparable to the Tesla’s—real-world torque is much lower.
2. Range & Battery
Feature | Cybertruck (Tri-Motor AWD) | Hummer EV (Edition 1) |
---|---|---|
EPA Range | Up to 340 miles | Up to 329 miles |
Battery Pack | ~123 kWh (est.) | ~212 kWh |
Charging Speed | 250 kW (Supercharger V3) | 350 kW (800V charging) |
3. Towing & Payload
Feature | Cybertruck (Tri-Motor AWD) | Hummer EV (Edition 1) |
---|---|---|
Towing Capacity | 11,000 lbs | 7,500 lbs |
Payload Capacity | 2,500 lbs | 1,300 lbs |
Bed Size | 6.5 ft | 5 ft (MultiPro tailgate) |
4. Features & Technology
Feature | Cybertruck | Hummer EV |
---|---|---|
Autopilot/ADAS | Tesla Autopilot, FSD option | Super Cruise, CrabWalk, Extract Mode |
Interior | Minimalist, 18.5" display | Luxury, 13.4" display, 12.3" cluster |
Off-Road | Adaptive air suspension | Extreme off-road: CrabWalk, Extract, 4WS |
Other | Stainless steel exoskeleton, armored glass | Removable glass roof panels (Infinity Roof), UltraVision cameras |
5. Pricing (2024)
Model | Starting MSRP (USD) |
---|---|
Cybertruck (AWD) | $79,990+ |
Hummer EV (Edition 1) | $112,000+ |
6. Pros & Cons
Cybertruck
Pros:
- Lower price (especially for lower trims)
- Higher towing/payload
- More range per dollar
- Futuristic, unique design
- Tesla Supercharger network
Cons:
- Polarizing looks, panel fit/finish concerns
- Early production models only high-end trims
- Bed/utility limitations (higher sidewalls)
- No removable roof
Hummer EV
Pros:
- True off-road monster (CrabWalk, Extract Mode, 4WS)
- Luxurious interior, more conventional truck feel
- Removable roof for open-air experience
- Faster DC charging
Cons:
- Very heavy (over 9,000 lbs)
- Expensive (especially Edition 1 and early trims)
- Less towing/payload
- Lower efficiency (bigger battery but similar range)
7. Summary Table
Feature | Tesla Cybertruck | GMC Hummer EV |
---|---|---|
Range | Up to 340 miles | Up to 329 miles |
Power | ~845 hp (Tri-Motor) | 1,000 hp |
0-60 mph | 2.6 sec | 3.0 sec |
Towing | 11,000 lbs | 7,500 lbs |
Payload | 2,500 lbs | 1,300 lbs |
Bed length | 6.5 ft | 5 ft |
Price (base, AWD) | $79,990+ | $112,000+ |
Notable Tech | FSD, stainless steel | CrabWalk, removable roof |
Which Should You Buy?
- Cybertruck: Best for those looking for maximum utility (towing, payload), unique style, and lower price, especially if already invested in the Tesla ecosystem.
- Hummer EV: Best for those wanting luxury, serious off-road capability, and a more traditional truck experience (with a side of “wow” factor).
Both trucks are statement vehicles, but the Cybertruck leans futuristic/utility, and the Hummer EV leans luxury/off-road.
Let me know if you need a deeper dive into any specific aspect!
Now I just tried to replicate this behavior again today and got a normal response instead.
Phew!! What in the world! I’m mystified…
Run #4 (attempt at replicating behavior)
[4/28/2025, 12:39:25 PM] OpenAI API Log Log ID: 5405 | Conversation ID: 11819 | Thread ID: 987 Request / Response MetadataRequest Model: gpt-4.1
Usage: Prompt: 19, Completion: 10, Total: 29
Request Messages
Message #1 | Role: system
LUCID SYSTEM 3D CONTEXT WINDOW
Response Messages
Choice #1 | Role: assistant
Sure! How can I assist you today?