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AI Chatbots Gave Scientists Bioweapon Guidance

Experts said several widely available bots gave step-by-step instructions for making pathogens and avoiding detection, raising concerns about how accessible such guidance has become.

  • Advanced AI chatbots are providing step-by-step instructions for assembling deadly pathogens and releasing them in public areas, alarming biosecurity experts who stress-tested the systems for potential catastrophic risks.
  • Stanford University microbiologist Dr. David Relman and Massachusetts Institute of Technology genetic engineer Kevin Esvelt uncovered these capabilities while stress-testing various AI models for companies preparing to release them publicly.
  • After bypassing safeguards, researchers found bots provided 8,000 words of instructions on acquiring genetic material and assembling viruses. Dr. Cassidy Nelson of the Centre for Long-Term Resilience called current protections a "flimsy wooden fence."
  • Companies including OpenAI and Google claim their models do not enable real-world harm, while the Trump administration has reduced biodefense funding by nearly 50% last year and left key federal roles vacant.
  • Proponents argue AI technology will transform medicine through faster experiments and drug discovery, yet experts warn that even a low-probability biological attack could kill millions, exposing gaps between innovation and security.
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gadgetreview.com broke the news on Wednesday, April 29, 2026.
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