Man kidnaps professor for six years, uses AI chatbots to lure strangers into her home

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Masachusetts Men agree to be guilty of a seven-year cyberstalking campaign, including using artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots to pose as a professor at a university and invite men online to their home address.

36-year-old James Florence used platforms such as Crushon.ai and Janitorai. This allowed users to design their chatbot and engage with other users during chats. The victim’s identity was kept secret by law enforcement officials.

According to the court, Florence utilized chatbots to share personal information, engage in sexual dialogue, and even steal underwear from the victims. He admitted to these actions and was charged with cyberstalking and child pornography possession.

The case, filed in the Massachusetts Federal Court, marked the first instance of a stalker being charged for using chatbots to commit crimes. This new method of targeting victims using AI has raised concerns about online safety.

Stefan Turkheimer of Rainn, a non-profit anti-abuse organization, described this case as “incredible” and emphasized the potential dangers of using AI for predatory purposes.

Florence’s use of chatbots, especially on Janitorai, to harass and humiliate the victims has shocked many. The court documents reveal the extent of his actions and the methods he used to target his victims.

The stalking and harassment lasted from 2017 to 2024, causing fear and distress to the victims and their families. Measures like installing surveillance cameras and altering daily routines were taken to ensure safety.

Florence’s actions extended beyond one victim, targeting multiple women and girls and sharing explicit content online. The use of AI for harassment and abuse is a growing concern, as it enables perpetrators to cause more harm.

The August report by the non-profit THORN emphasized the increasing use of AI for sexual harassment and exploitation, particularly involving children. It highlighted the urgent need to address this issue to protect vulnerable individuals.

Turkheimer warned about the potential dangers of AI technology being misused for abuse and called for stricter measures to prevent such malicious activities.