Matthew Alan Livelsberger, a 37-year-old Army soldier, used artificial intelligence to guide him in setting off an explosion that destroyed a Cybertruck in front of the Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas on New Year’s Day. Officials stated that he used ChatGPT to query information on creating an explosive device, determining the necessary speed for detonation, and obtaining the materials needed for the attack. The use of AI in this incident raised concerns among law enforcement about the technology being misused in plotting attacks. Livelsberger ultimately died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head.
Authorities identified Livelsberger through DNA and tattoos after the explosion, and video footage showed him igniting the vehicle with racing fuel and explosives. The ATF indicated that his gunshot may have caused the explosion, as there was no evidence of a remote-controlled detonation. OpenAI, the company behind ChatGPT, expressed sadness over the technology’s role in the attack and stated that their models are designed to refuse harmful instructions.
Livelsberger left messages criticizing the U.S. government and expressing grievances in his phone, indicating that he had nothing to live for. He was on military leave when he rented the Cybertruck and drove it to Las Vegas for the attack. Law enforcement highlighted the challenges of tracking AI usage for potential threats. The incident showcases the growing concerns over AI being used for malicious purposes and the need for responsible use of technology.
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