ASIO Chief Mike Burgess Warns of AI’s Role in Accelerating Online Radicalisation
Mike Burgess, the director general of the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO), has issued a stark warning about the escalating threat posed by social media and artificial intelligence (AI) in fueling extremism. Speaking at a social media summit in Adelaide, Burgess described the impact of social media as a “step-change” in the threat landscape, emphasizing how it has become a powerful tool for radicalisation, with AI likely to exacerbate the situation.
Burgess highlighted that individuals like the Christchurch terrorist, who used the internet to research and refine his extremist ideology, are being radicalised through social media. He further warned that AI could accelerate this process, making it easier and faster for extremists to recruit and spread their ideologies online.
Social Media: A “Goldmine and a Cesspit” for Extremism
In his speech, Burgess described social media as both “a goldmine and a cesspit,” pointing out its dual nature of fostering connections while also creating divisions. He labelled the internet as “the world’s most potent incubator of extremism,” explaining that while social media may not be the sole driver of radicalisation, ASIO considers it a “significant driver.”
According to Burgess, social media platforms have enabled the widespread sharing of extremist ideologies, conspiracy theories, and disinformation at an unprecedented scale and speed. Radicalisation, which once took months or years, can now occur in a matter of days or weeks, and lone actors are increasingly identified as the most likely perpetrators of future terrorist attacks.
Citing the Christchurch massacre as a key example, Burgess explained how the perpetrator used the internet to formulate his ideology and livestream his attack on social media. In one instance, Burgess revealed, an alleged perpetrator confessed that access to online extremist content had pushed them “over the edge.”
Telegram and Dark Web Platforms as Hotspots for Extremist Communication
Burgess also singled out Telegram, a platform notorious for its role in facilitating extremist communication. Despite recent cooperation from Telegram with law enforcement following the arrest and charge of its founder, Pavel Durov, in France, the platform remains a haven for violent extremists.
According to Burgess, extremist groups use Telegram to connect with like-minded individuals, both domestically and internationally, particularly in spaces like “Terrorgram” chat rooms. He expressed concerns over the increasing use of Telegram by nationalist and racist violent extremists, including Australians, to share strategies for inciting a race war in the country.
The Challenge of End-to-End Encryption
A recurring theme in Burgess’ address was the challenge posed by end-to-end encryption on social media platforms. He acknowledged that while privacy is important, it should not be absolute and should not impede law enforcement’s ability to investigate criminal activities.
End-to-end encryption, which prevents third parties from accessing private communications, has become a significant obstacle for security agencies. Burgess reiterated his stance that technology must not be above the rule of law and called for a balanced approach that respects privacy but also allows for necessary regulation.
AI and the New Frontier of Radicalisation
Burgess’s most concerning remarks, however, focused on the role AI will play in radicalisation. He warned that AI will “augment the incubation and accelerate the acceleration” of extremism, with ASIO assessing that AI will create a “step-change” in the threat environment. Extremists, he noted, are already experimenting with AI to enhance their recruitment efforts, particularly on social media.
AI’s ability to manipulate content and target specific audiences makes it a powerful tool for extremists. As AI technology becomes more advanced, Burgess warned that it will streamline the radicalisation process and allow extremists to craft more sophisticated propaganda and recruitment campaigns.
Beyond radicalisation, Burgess also predicted that AI would increase the volume of espionage, with both state and non-state actors using the technology for intelligence-gathering activities.
The Impact of Social Media on Youth and Extremism
A significant portion of Burgess’ speech was dedicated to the impact of social media on young people, who are increasingly being exposed to extremist content. He pointed to cases of Australian teenagers displaying Nazi flags and sharing violent content in schoolyards as alarming indicators of how radicalisation is taking root among the youth.
Burgess called for national reflection on why young people are drawn to extremist ideologies, warning that by the time ASIO and law enforcement are involved, it is often too late. The combination of social isolation, poor mental health, and algorithms that steer users towards extremist content are leading young Australians down dangerous paths, he said.
Social Media Regulation and the Balance of Free Speech
Despite the bleak outlook, Burgess emphasized that ASIO is not the sole solution to the problem of online radicalisation. He urged for a national conversation on how to regulate social media without infringing on free speech, free choice, or the free market.
The federal government’s plans to restrict access to social media for younger teens were also discussed at the summit, with Burgess noting that platforms will be responsible for enforcing these restrictions. While social media regulation is necessary, Burgess acknowledged that it must be implemented carefully to ensure a balance between safety and individual freedoms.
Conclusion: The Urgent Need to Address AI-Driven Extremism
In his closing remarks, Burgess reiterated the urgent need to address the growing threat of online radicalisation, particularly in the age of AI. With AI set to revolutionize the way extremists recruit and spread their ideologies, security agencies and policymakers must stay ahead of the curve to prevent further tragedies.
As Australia grapples with these emerging threats, the role of social media platforms, government regulation, and public awareness will be critical in countering extremism in all its forms. The challenge, as Burgess highlighted, is finding a way to protect privacy and free speech while ensuring the safety and security of society in an increasingly digital and interconnected world.
