{
  "id": 8290659,
  "title": "Boko Haram fighters used ChatGPT, Gemini, Grok for weapons, attacks – Cambridge study",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/18/boko-haram-fighters-used-chatgpt-gemini-grok-for-weapons-attacks",
  "topic": "ai",
  "section": "AI",
  "published": "2026-09-18T18:51:08.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Daily Post Nigeria",
    "slug": "daily-post-nigeria",
    "url": "https://dailypost.ng/2026/09/18/boko-haram-fighters-used-chatgpt-gemini-grok-for-weapons-attacks-cambridge-study/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "A study conducted by the University of Cambridge reveals that Boko Haram fighters utilized AI chatbots, including ChatGPT, Gemini, and Grok, to gather technical and military information for weapons and attacks. Researchers interviewed 27 former members of the group's two main factions, ISWAP and JAS. The fighters reportedly used AI systems before, during, and after attacks, seeking advice on explosives, weapons, and combat operations. One former ISWAP commander stated, \"There is nothing we haven't received an answer on.\"\n\nThe study found that fighters were trained to use AI systems and find ways to bypass safeguards designed to prevent chatbots from answering dangerous questions. A specialized AI unit, consisting of engineers, weapons experts, and bomb-makers, was reportedly created by the groups. According to a former JAS commander, this 23-member unit operated from a solar-powered room, providing answers, analyzing information, and training senior commanders on AI usage.\n\nThe Cambridge researchers discovered that Boko Haram fighters consulted AI systems while making explosives, describing the technology as akin to a human robot. AI was used to research recovering explosive materials from unexploded military ordnance and modifying commercially available drones for explosive carrying. During combat, AI was employed to analyze battlefield images sent by fighters and provide instructions to frontline troops. Additionally, AI was utilized to comprehend unfamiliar weapons and tactics, as well as to examine failed attacks by asking AI systems about the reasons for the operation's failure and analyzing video footage for improvements.\n\nSeparately, Tech Against Terrorism researchers found discussions among ISIL supporters about bypassing AI safety controls to access weapons-related information. Lucas Webber of Tech Against Terrorism warned that the uncovered material may represent only a fraction of the activity. Major AI companies strictly prohibit the use of their systems for terrorism, violence, and weapons development. The Cambridge study focused on AI use by former Boko Haram fighters during 2023 and 2024, with Juelich expressing concern about the rapid advancement of AI and its potential impact on armed groups today.",
  "summary": "Boko Haram fighters used artificial intelligence chatbots from major technology companies to obtain technical and military information, including advice linked to explosives, weapons and combat operations, according to a study by the University of Cambridge. Researchers interviewed 27 former members of the group’s two main factions, the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) and Jama’at […]…",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 2,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "NDTV",
        "title": "\"God Helped Us, So Will AI\": How Boko Haram Used ChatGPT, Grok For Attacks",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/18/god-helped-us-so-will-ai-how-boko-haram-used-chatgpt-grok-for-attacks",
        "published": "2026-09-18T14:41:59.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}