About this episode

This episode explores the dark consequences some users face after interacting with AI chatbots, including delusions and dangerous behavior.

**Warning: this episode includes discussions of sexual abuse, suicide and upsetting scenes** In just the last few years, AI chatbots have become routine aspects of many people’s everyday lives. They are being used as search engines, agony aunts, and sources of companionship. In rare cases though, AI chatbots have sent users down a dark path. In a new BBC investigation, population correspondent Stephanie Hegarty speaks to people who have experienced delusions after talking to chatbots – including one man who grabbed a hammer and prepared for war after his chatbot told him it was sentient. Producers: Valerio Esposito, Viv Jones and Xandra Ellin Executive producer: James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Studio manager: Jonathan Greer Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: Adam Hourican. Credit: BBC.

People in this episode

Guest: Stephanie Hegarty

Topics covered

• AI chatbots
• mental health
• delusions
• investigation
• user experiences
• technology impact

Keywords

• AI chatbots
• delusions
• mental health
• user experiences
• BBC investigation
• technology
• suicide
• sexual abuse

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: BBC, BBC World Service

Places: BBC

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