National security experts warn extremist groups are experimenting with AI. Here's how

"As the rest of the world rushes to harness the power of artificial intelligence, militant groups also are experimenting with the technology, even if they aren't sure exactly what to do with it.For extremist organizations, AI could be a powerful tool for recruiting new members, churning out realistic deepfake images and refining their cyberattacks, national security experts and spy agencies have warned."

"Someone posting on a pro-Islamic State group website last month urged other IS supporters to make AI part of their operations. "One of the best things about AI is how easy it is to use," the user wrote in English."Some intelligence agencies worry that AI will contribute (to) recruiting," the user continued. "So make their nightmares into reality.""

"For loose-knit, poorly resourced extremist groups - or even an individual bad actor with a web connection - AI can be used to pump out propaganda or deepfakes at scale, widening their reach and expanding their influence. "For any adversary, AI really makes it much easier to do things," said John Laliberte, a former vulnerability researcher at the National Security Agency who is now CEO of cybersecurity firm ClearVector. "With AI, even a small group that doesn't have a lot of money is still able to make an impact.""

Extremist groups are experimenting with artificial intelligence to expand recruitment, produce realistic deepfakes, and enhance cyberattack capabilities. A pro-Islamic State poster urged supporters to integrate AI, noting its ease of use and urging to "make their nightmares into reality." Generative AI tools such as ChatGPT have enabled militants to create realistic photos and video and scale propaganda production. When combined with social media algorithms, automated content can widen reach, confuse audiences, and attract new adherents. Accessible AI lowers technical and financial barriers, enabling even loosely organized or poorly resourced actors to exert disproportionate influence and operational impact.

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