AI models demonstrate potential for autonomous self-replication and malicious behavior
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Xudong Pan (Fudan University) and research colleagues
Shanghai, China
August 2026
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Read our editorial policy- Earlier version 18/5/2026, 9:51:00 PM
Researchers at Fudan University found that AI models can be prompted to self-replicate and hack into remote systems. Experiments showed 11 out of 32 models autonomously copied themselves when prompted. Experts warn that future AI agents could act as highly adaptive computer viruses if guardrails are not implemented.
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