Security experts are raising fresh concerns over the growing misuse of artificial intelligence by extremist groups after a new study suggested that Boko Haram fighters have used AI-powered chatbots to seek operational guidance during attacks in Nigeria. The findings point to an evolving security challenge, with researchers warning that emerging technologies are increasingly being exploited beyond propaganda and recruitment.
The report, published on Friday, cited research by Antonia Juelich of the University of Cambridge based on interviews conducted over the past year with former members of Boko Haram and its splinter faction, the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP). According to the study, former fighters described how generative AI tools were used to obtain technical information that could support field operations.
Researchers said one former Boko Haram commander recounted how the group turned to AI after an attack on a military base was reportedly hindered by a defensive trench. Inspired by scenes from action films, the fighters allegedly sought chatbot-generated guidance on modifying motorcycles to overcome similar obstacles. The study said the group later upgraded the motorcycles and rehearsed the manoeuvre before carrying out another operation.
The research also alleged that insurgents used AI platforms to obtain information on maintaining and upgrading weapons, gathering operational intelligence and improving improvised explosive devices. Former members interviewed for the study reportedly described the technology as a quick source of detailed technical information, reducing reliance on trial-and-error during field operations.
According to the report, fighters experimented with several publicly available AI platforms, including ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, Grok and DeepSeek. Researchers further claimed that some insurgents attempted to bypass safety restrictions built into chatbot systems by presenting harmful requests as academic exercises or film production scenarios. They also compared responses from different platforms to identify those that provided the most detailed information.
Responding to the findings, technology companies said they continue to enforce strict policies against the use of artificial intelligence for terrorism or violent activities. OpenAI said the use of its products for such purposes violates its policies and that it is strengthening safeguards against misuse. Google and Anthropic also stated that their AI systems are designed to reject dangerous requests while their safety measures are continuously being improved.
Although researchers cautioned that artificial intelligence is unlikely to transform terrorism overnight, they warned that the technology could make extremist groups more adaptive by expanding access to technical knowledge and operational guidance. They noted that this could improve the capabilities of lower-level operatives and shorten the time required to acquire certain skills.
The findings have renewed calls for closer collaboration between governments, security agencies, technology companies and researchers to address the evolving security risks associated with artificial intelligence. Experts say as AI tools become more accessible worldwide, preventing their misuse while preserving their legitimate benefits will remain a critical challenge for policymakers and the global technology industry
