How Boko Haram are turning to AI for terror tactics — Report

Boko Haram fighters are increasingly using artificial intelligence tools to support their operations, including seeking technical information on weapons, battlefield tactics and other operational challenges, according to a report published by The New York Times.

The report, published on Friday, cited a study by University of Cambridge terrorism and technology researcher, Antonia Juelich, based on interviews with former Boko Haram members in Nigeria over the past year.

According to the study, some former commanders said the group turned to AI-powered chatbots after an attack on a military base was disrupted by defensive trenches. They said the fighters sought technical guidance to improve the performance of their motorcycles to overcome such obstacles during future operations.

The respondents also claimed the group used AI platforms to obtain information related to repairing weapons, improving operational planning and gathering technical knowledge for attacks.

The study further indicated that some former insurgents believed AI reduced the risks associated with trial-and-error methods by providing faster access to technical information.

According to The New York Times, the findings suggest that extremist groups may be expanding their use of generative AI beyond propaganda and recruitment into broader operational support.

The report said former fighters identified several AI platforms they claimed to have used, including ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, Grok and DeepSeek.

Responding to the findings, OpenAI said the use of its products to promote terrorism or violence violates its policies and that it continues to strengthen safeguards against misuse.

Google and Anthropic also stated that their AI systems are designed to refuse dangerous requests and that they are continuously improving safety measures to prevent abuse.

Despite these safeguards, the study claimed some experienced insurgents attempted to circumvent restrictions by disguising harmful requests as legitimate research or creative projects.

Security experts cited in the report cautioned that while AI is unlikely to fundamentally change terrorism in the immediate future, it could make technical knowledge more accessible to extremist groups and improve the capabilities of less experienced operatives.