A new report has revealed that Boko Haram fighters are increasingly relying on artificial intelligence (AI) tools to enhance their insurgency, using AI-powered chatbots to obtain technical guidance on explosives, weapons repair, drone operations and battlefield tactics. Researchers warn that the growing use of AI by extremist groups marks a dangerous evolution in modern terrorism.
Fresh concerns have emerged over the evolving tactics of Boko Haram after a new report revealed that the terrorist group is increasingly incorporating artificial intelligence into its operations to improve efficiency, technical capabilities and battlefield effectiveness.
The findings suggest that insurgents are no longer relying solely on traditional training manuals or experienced bomb makers but are now turning to AI-powered tools for real-time technical assistance and operational planning.
According to a report by The New York Times, citing research by Antonia Juelich of the University of Cambridge, Boko Haram members have used AI chatbots to seek guidance on manufacturing improvised explosive devices (IEDs), repairing weapons, planning attacks and overcoming logistical challenges.
The report also indicates that some fighters have used AI to obtain information on drone operations, battlefield strategies and operational security, enabling them to adapt more quickly despite military pressure.
Researchers warned that widely accessible AI systems are lowering the technical barriers for extremist groups, making sophisticated knowledge easier to obtain without direct contact with experienced militants.
Security experts say extremist organisations across different regions have increasingly embraced digital technologies, including encrypted messaging platforms, drones and online propaganda.
The latest findings suggest AI has become another tool capable of strengthening insurgent operations if safeguards are not effectively implemented by technology companies and governments.
Analysts also caution that AI itself is not the cause of terrorism but that its misuse by violent groups presents a growing international security challenge requiring coordinated global responses.
The Cambridge researchers urged AI developers and governments to strengthen safeguards against the misuse of generative AI by terrorist organisations.
Counterterrorism specialists also called for closer cooperation between technology companies, intelligence agencies and law enforcement to monitor and disrupt attempts by extremist groups to exploit emerging technologies.
The report highlights how rapidly evolving technology is reshaping modern security threats. As artificial intelligence becomes more accessible worldwide, experts warn that preventing its abuse by terrorist organisations like Boko Haram may become as important as developing the technology itself.