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ChatGPT Sparks Debate After U.S. Army Soldier Uses It to Plan Explosion Outside Trump Hotel

 

On New Year’s Day, a Tesla Cybertruck exploded outside the Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas, injuring seven people. Investigators later revealed that the attack was planned by 37-year-old Matthew Alan Livelsberger, a U.S. Army Special Forces soldier, using ChatGPT, a popular AI tool developed by OpenAI.

 

How the Attack Organized Using ChatGPT

 

Police said Livelsberger had used the AI to search for information regarding explosives and their triggering. Livelsberger was found to be inquiring on the ChatGPT about materials that could explode, ammunition speed, and some legal issues relating to fireworks. 

The AI returned the information already in the public domain but also warned about harmful activities. Despite the warning, the AI's reply assisted Livelsberger in planning.

 

A Troubling Use of AI

 

As Las Vegas Sheriff Kevin McMahill stated, using ChatGPT to plan this attack was "a game-changer" and "a concerning moment." This is believed to be the first time ChatGPT has helped someone create a device for an attack. According to McMahill, this points out how AI can become dangerous if mishandled.

 

Reason Behind the Attack

 

The manifesto found on Livelsberger's phone explained the motive behind the explosion. According to Livelsberger, it was a "wake-up call" to address the country's problems with its current political and social systems in the U.S.

Livelsberger also suffered from PTSD after his stint in the military, and mental illness had a long history. He believed only by shocking society would people focus on what mattered to him.

 

AI Developer's Response

 

OpenAI, the developer of ChatGPT, apologized for the incident. The company reiterated its commitment to responsible AI use and clarified that the model is designed to refuse harmful instructions and minimize dangerous content. 

However, since the information Livelsberger sought was publicly available, ChatGPT did not block the queries.

 

Authorities Investigate Further

 

Although Livelsberger did not intentionally cause harm, seven people had minor injuries because of his act. The pyrotechnics used to ignite the explosion consisted of more than 60 pounds of pyrotechnics along with 20 gallons of fuel. 

It is still a mystery why police have yet to understand his motivation for targeting the Trump Hotel in his blast, as well as why he was in such a bad mental condition.

 

Reflection on AI Safety and Public Impact

 

The tragic incident reminds the world of the proper use of AI. As AI technology expands, its misuse will cause drastic effects. Experts are driven by the need to put boundaries on AI to prevent evil uses.