Study Finds Surge in AI-Related Discussions on Cybercrime Forums Since ChatGPT Launch

Users on cybercrime forums have posted repeated complaints about AI-generated content appearing in threads and marketplaces, according to a study reported by Wired. Researchers examined 97,895 AI-related conversations spanning the launch of ChatGPT in 2022 through the end of 2025. The analysis showed a shift from initial interest in the technology to widespread irritation over low-quality posts.

Ben Collier, a security researcher and senior lecturer at the University of Edinburgh, led the study with colleagues from the University of Cambridge and the University of Strathclyde. Wired reported that one anonymous user wrote: “I’m disappointed that you are working to incorporate AI garbage into the site. Forum participants described how AI posts disrupt social dynamics.

Collier explained the underlying tension. He said the social dynamic of the groups can be messed up by potential cybercriminals trying to gain a better reputation by posting AI-generated hacking explainers. He further noted: “These are social spaces.

Ian Gray, vice president of intelligence at the security company Flashpoint, described how more sophisticated actors approach the tools. Flashpoint researchers have spotted hackers discussing the idea of building an “AI-enhanced” cybercrime market. Despite the volume of discussion, the study concluded that AI has produced limited effects overall.

The researchers stated: “It has not reduced the skill barrier to entry, nor has it led to serious disruptions to established business models or practices.