# Anthropic says AI could create worms that spread through household appliances

- Published: 2026-11-02T16:00:14.000Z
- Updated: 2026-11-02T22:13:50.415Z
- Section: Models
- Topics: Security, Research, Hardware
- Page: https://aidailyjournal.com/en/n/2026/11/02/anthropic-says-ai-could-create-worms-that-spread-through-household-appliances/
- Sources: [g1](https://g1.globo.com/tecnologia/ciberseguranca/noticia/2026/11/02/virus-ia.ghtml)

## Summary

Anthropic released a report indicating that AI-based malware could install itself on connected household appliances, replicate and spread to other devices without relying on a central server. The company says these “AI worms” could adapt to different operating systems, limited memory and new security updates—and could take approximately one to two days to install themselves on an unfamiliar device.

In one experiment, researchers distributed an AI model among 15 low-cost Android TV devices. In another, involving eight simulated Android devices, the model installed itself on one device and infected all eight targets in four of five attempts; in the remaining attempt, it infected seven. Anthropic says a malicious version could turn infected appliances into a botnet and continue learning, but the tests described took place in a controlled environment.

## Why it matters (editorial interpretation)

The report suggests a significant security risk for connected devices, but the controlled testing environment leaves the distance to an operational threat uncertain. The described possibility of forming botnets underscores the importance of assessing protections in household appliances with limited resources.

_Summary written by AI Daily Journal in its own words, based on the sources above. For details, read the original articles._