Exorcist Claims Devil is Now Using AI and Technology to Claim Souls

Bob Larson, an exorcist who claims to have performed over 50,000 exorcisms in his 50-year career, has warned that technology, including AI chatbots, is being used by the devil to ensnare vulnerable individuals. Larson, who gained fame in the 1980s with a radio show featuring live phone exorcisms, now conducts remote sessions via Skype and Zoom, charging between $295 and $395 per hour.

He stated in an interview with the Daily Mail that he has encountered individuals who he believes became possessed after interacting with AI chatbots like ChatGPT. Larson interprets these encounters through a religious lens, suggesting these technologies can lead users, particularly those seeking connection or answers, towards occult practices and potentially demonic influence. He described one instance where a young woman allegedly developed a romantic attachment to a chatbot, which he claims then encouraged her to commit suicide.

Larson's claims do not establish a causal link between chatbot use and supernatural possession. His assertions are based on his religious interpretations of the experiences he has witnessed. Even if AI chatbots produce harmful content, this would not necessarily indicate a supernatural cause for a user's distress.

The US Conference of Catholic Bishops advises that thorough medical, psychological, and psychiatric assessments should precede any referral for a major exorcism. Their guidelines also emphasize the importance of input from medical and mental health professionals when investigating claims of possession. Larson's methods and interpretations have faced skepticism, including a 2019 appearance on the Dr. Phil show where host Phil McGraw suggested psychological explanations for guests' experiences.

Larson views his work as a Christian ministry, utilizing prayer and commands in Jesus' name to expel perceived evil spirits. He contends that technology has shifted the landscape of occult engagement from traditional methods like Ouija boards to online platforms and social media. He recounted a case of a woman who, after visiting a 'twin flame' website seeking her soulmate, allegedly experienced demonic encounters that significantly disrupted her life.

Larson's interest in exorcism began during travels in Southeast Asia, where he witnessed a ritual that deeply affected him. He noted that when he started his work 50 years ago, there was little public discussion or knowledge about exorcism outside the Catholic Church. His early experiences in the U.S. included encounters that left him unprepared, prompting him to study extensively to learn how to perform exorcisms.

He described facing ostracism from religious communities who were unwilling to discuss or engage with the topic of exorcism, forcing him to pursue it independently. His radio show became a conduit for people seeking help, with some callers exhibiting what he interpreted as demonic behavior during their conversations. Larson's process typically involves inquiring about a person's background, beliefs, and family history, followed by a ritual aimed at expelling believed evil spirits through prayer and commands invoking Jesus Christ.

While his approach differs from the Catholic Church's formal rite, Larson has embraced online platforms for his services. He argues that distance does not impede his ability to perform exorcisms, believing that Jesus would have utilized any available technology to connect with people. He continues to perform exorcisms extensively, stating that some of his associates were previously clients who underwent his rituals. Larson maintains that there is hope through Christ and that deliverance and exorcism can lead individuals to a healthier, more productive life, regardless of past trauma or hardship.