How terrorist groups are using AI to gain an edge in battle
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A militant climbs up a tower with a flag at what appears to be a military base in Tessalit, Mali, in this screengrab from a social media video released on May 1.
PHOTO: REUTERS
Dustin Volz and Eric Schmitt
- Terrorist groups like Boko Haram use AI tools for tactical battle advantages, such as modifying weapons and planning attacks, beyond propaganda and recruitment.
- AI companies have safety measures, but terrorists often bypass them using multiple platforms, raising concerns about AI misuse in terrorism.
- Experts warn AI may modestly improve lower-level attackers' skills and accelerate radicalisation, posing growing challenges for global security and counterterrorism efforts.
AI generated
WASHINGTON – When a gang of motorcycle-riding members of Boko Haram attacked a military base in eastern Nigeria a couple of years ago, they were stymied by a defensive trench surrounding the complex.
The extremists regrouped. Before launching another assault, they asked artificial intelligence for help.
