Tool and target: US law enforcement grapple with AI-enabled terrorism and anti-tech extremism
Summary
In May 2025, a man used generative AI to help plan a car bomb attack on a fertility clinic, killing himself and injuring four others. Since 2021, U.S. law enforcement agencies have been monitoring how terrorists and extremists might use AI to commit crimes and target AI infrastructure, while also exploring ways to use AI tools for policing.Key Facts
- A 25-year-old man used an AI chatbot to get bomb-making instructions before detonating a car bomb in Palm Springs in May 2025.
- Law enforcement found current AI safety measures are not strong enough to stop criminals from accessing dangerous information via AI.
- FBI memos warn that terrorists will likely increase their use of AI for planning attacks.
- Police and intelligence agencies have tracked the risk that extremists might use AI to create misinformation, deepfakes, and harmful content like child abuse material.
- Law enforcement is also concerned about public opposition and extremist threats targeting the physical places (data centers) that house AI technology.
- Over 80 documents from agencies like the FBI, DHS, and NYPD reveal ongoing efforts to monitor AI-related threats and use AI for policing.
- The NYPD’s AI threat analysis referred to the "AI 2027" project, which examines possible future risks from AI, including bioweapon drones.
- Police balance using AI to monitor social media against concerns about privacy and public trust.
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