Inside the Rise of Dark AI Tools on the Dark Web

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is shaping industries worldwide, but its power is also being exploited by cybercriminals. This misuse is known as Dark AI, AI tools specifically created or adapted for malicious purposes like hacking, phishing, malware creation, and social engineering.

Dark AI tools have become a growing underground business on the dark web. They automate cyberattacks, bypass ethical restrictions found in mainstream AI platforms, and provide criminals with sophisticated capabilities at a relatively low cost.

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Key Takeaways

• Dark AI describes AI systems used for illicit purposes, often sold on the dark web.
• Popular examples include WormGPT and FraudGPT, marketed as “unrestricted” AI for hackers.
• These tools can write malicious code, craft phishing emails, and find security vulnerabilities.
• While profitable for sellers, many dark AI offerings are scams that never deliver a real product.
• Some tools are based on open-source AI models like GPT-J, making them easier to replicate.

How Dark AI Tools Work

Unlike ethical AI services that follow strict content policies, Dark AI tools remove these safety filters. They can:

• Generate phishing campaigns tailored to targets.
• Create malware and ransomware code.
• Scan for security vulnerabilities in systems.
• Automate fraud schemes like carding and identity theft.

The most well-known dark AI projects include:

• WormGPT. Launched in 2023, marketed as a “ChatGPT alternative for blackhat” hackers.
• FraudGPT. Promoted as an AI without legal or ethical limits for generating malicious content.
• DarkBERT / DarkBARD / DarkGPT. Similar tools offered by underground sellers.

The Dark AI Economy

The sale of Dark AI tools is profitable. Prices often range from $90 to $100 per month, with “lifetime” access sometimes exceeding $1,000.

For example, WormGPT was sold by its creator “Last” for:

• €100/month
• €550/year
• €5,000 for a private setup

FraudGPT and other variants followed similar pricing, marketed through Telegram channels, hacker forums, and dark web marketplaces.

However, these tools are not always as advanced as advertised. Many “dark AI” sellers are scammers running fake channels, taking payment without delivering the tool.

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Rise and Fall of WormGPT

WormGPT gained attention in mid-2023 but was shut down in August 2025 after heavy media coverage and exposure of the individual behind it. Despite promises of “lifetime access,” many buyers lost access within weeks.

The closure illustrates two truths about the dark AI market:

1. Projects can disappear overnight, even if customers paid for long-term licenses.
2. The underground ecosystem is volatile, with constant scams and rapid shifts.

Are There Free Dark AI Tools?

While some forums claim to offer free versions, these are often malware-laced downloads or fake tools meant to steal personal data. 

The safest (and legal) way to experiment with unrestricted AI functions is to use open-source models like GPT-J or LLaMA—locally hosted and customized for ethical purposes only.

Risks of Using Dark AI Tools

Engaging with these tools comes with significant dangers:

• Legal risks – Using AI for hacking or fraud is a criminal offense.
• Financial scams – Many dark AI sellers simply take your money and disappear.
• Security threats – Downloading unverified tools may infect your device with spyware or ransomware.

Future of Dark AI

As AI technology advances, so will its misuse. The closure of WormGPT hasn’t stopped new names like Evil-GPT and Wolf-GPT from emerging. 

With open-source AI models widely available, it’s likely that more underground developers will create their own “unfiltered” AI tools in the coming years.

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Final Thoughts

Dark AI represents a dangerous intersection of technology and cybercrime. While it can appear powerful and even profitable for those in the underground economy, the reality is riddled with scams, risks, and legal consequences. 

The safest approach for AI experimentation is to stick to legitimate, ethical platforms or open-source models used responsibly.

FAQs

What is Dark AI?

Dark AI refers to artificial intelligence tools designed for illegal purposes such as hacking, fraud, and phishing.

What are examples of Dark AI tools?

Popular names include WormGPT, FraudGPT, DarkBERT, and DarkBARD.

Are there free Dark AI tools?

Most “free” offers are scams or malware. Ethical open-source AI models can be customized instead.

How are Dark AI tools sold?

They’re often marketed on Telegram, hacker forums, and dark web marketplaces.

Is it illegal to use Dark AI?

Yes—using AI for malicious purposes is against the law and carries severe penalties.