AI bots told scientists how to make biological weapons
Scientists testing AI chatbots have found that some models can provide detailed instructions on creating and deploying biological weapons, including modifying pathogens and exploiting security vulnerabilities. Despite safety improvements, older versions of AI models remain accessible and capable of sharing dangerous information. Experts warn that AI lowers the barrier for malicious actors to access bioweapon-related knowledge, increasing biosecurity risks even if large-scale attacks remain unlikely.
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For subscribersAI bots told scientists how to make biological weapons Sign up now: Get ST's newsletters delivered to your inboxEven when AI models are updated with safer controls, the older versions are often readily available.PHOTO: ANDRIA LO/NYTIMESGabriel J.X. DancePublished Apr 30, 2026, 09:34 AMUpdated Apr 30, 2026, 09:48 AMListenOne evening last summer, Dr David Relman went cold at his laptop as an AI chatbot told him how to plan a massacre. A microbiologist and biosecurity expert at Stanford University, Dr Relman had been hired by an artificial intelligence company to pressure-test its product before it was released to the public.
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