Reddit ‘Radical’ Detector: Student Deploys AI for De-Radicalization

A student has developed a tool designed to identify and engage with users deemed “radical” on Reddit. The innovative system utilizes AI-powered bots that automatically interact with these users in an attempt to moderate their views.

The tool functions by scanning Reddit for specific keywords and phrases. Users who frequently use these terms are assigned a “radical score,” which triggers the deployment of the AI engagement bots.

The student’s project raises important questions about the role of AI in online moderation and the ethics of automated engagement with potentially radicalized individuals. The long-term impact of such tools remains to be seen.