A recent research paper from Cambridge University has revealed that Boko Haram, the militant group in northeastern Nigeria, has been using advanced artificial intelligence chatbots from both the United States and China to support its terrorist operations.

Based on interviews with 27 former Boko Haram members conducted over the past year, researcher Antonia Juelich found that the group utilized US-based AI chatbots such as OpenAI’s ChatGPT and Anthropic’s Claude, alongside Chinese company DeepSeek’s chatbot. These AI tools were employed for bomb construction, attack planning, and other daily operational tasks throughout 2024 and as recently as mid-2025.

The study also detailed workshops held in 2023 or 2024 where Boko Haram members were trained by specialized AI “trainers,” likely affiliated with the Islamic State network. During these sessions, external consultants—referred to by Boko Haram members as “the white guys”—instructed them on using AI chatbots with laptops equipped with VPNs and encryption software. A former Boko Haram commander noted it was the first time he saw the OpenAI logo during these trainings.

Juelich emphasized the gravity of the situation, telling the South China Morning Post, “This is very much a current national security problem. AI models are becoming much more capable, so the stakes are also much higher now.”

The findings come amid increasing calls for the US and China, the leading developers of AI chatbot technology, to address the risks of AI misuse by non-state actors in upcoming AI safety discussions. Terrorist groups have shown enthusiasm for leveraging AI to develop mass-casualty weapons, raising urgent concerns for global security.

Sources