Exorcists warn AI is a ‘great power’ that could be exploited by satanic groups

Some religious leaders and exorcists are warning that artificial intelligence could be misused by extremist or occult groups, raising concerns that the technology may play a role in modern forms of satanic activity.

The warnings come as clergy and researchers prepare to discuss the issue at a training program on exorcism in Rome.

The concern was raised ahead of the annual Course on the Ministry of Exorcism and Prayer of Deliverance, an event held at the Vatican-affiliated Ateneo Pontificio Regina Apostolorum in Rome. The program typically attracts around 170 participants, including Catholic priests as well as rabbis, imams and evangelical ministers interested in learning about exorcism and spiritual deliverance.

Father Luis Ramirez Almanza, a Mexican Catholic priest who helps organize the course, said artificial intelligence could be used in harmful ways if exploited by extremist groups. He said the technology is “a great power” that can be used for both positive and negative purposes.

According to the priest, the upcoming training will include sessions examining how AI might be used by occult groups or individuals interested in satanic practices. Organizers say the goal is to help clergy understand emerging digital threats and how they may intersect with religious concerns.

One speaker scheduled for the program is Father Fortunato Di Noto, a Sicilian priest who has worked on cases involving child exploitation. He said that some investigators believe certain extremist groups are experimenting with artificial intelligence to create disturbing digital content linked to satanic imagery or rituals.

Researchers who monitor cult activity have also raised concerns about the role of technology in helping fringe groups operate online. David Murgia, who leads the research organization Catholic Risk and Insurance Services, said law enforcement has warned that some satanic groups may use AI tools to hide or distribute content and communicate with one another more discreetly.

Experts say AI can quickly generate images, symbols or text, which could make it easier for online communities to produce and share occult-related material. Some conference speakers are expected to discuss how generative AI tools might be used to design ritual symbols or other imagery connected to occult practices.

The Vatican has also raised concerns about the impact of AI on society. Church officials have warned that the technology could be used for harmful purposes beyond religious issues, including propaganda, disinformation and other forms of manipulation if it is not carefully regulated.

At the same time, researchers stress that AI itself is not inherently linked to religious or occult activity. Instead, the warnings focus on the possibility that the technology could be misused by individuals or groups already involved in extremist beliefs or illegal activities.