Grand Mosque imam warns against AI misuse, affirms sanctity of holy sites

Abdulrahman Al-Sudais, imam and preacher of the Grand Mosque in Makkah, called on Muslims to fear God and adhere to religious and ethical guidelines when using social media and modern technologies. He warned of the dangers of spreading rumors and misleading information, violating others’ privacy, and exploiting artificial intelligence for forgery and fraud.

In his Friday sermon at the Grand Mosque, Al-Sudais emphasized that Islam is a comprehensive way of life, guiding people to noble morals and good conduct. He noted the rapid pace of technological advancement and the widespread use of social media, describing these platforms as blessings that require gratitude through responsible use and awareness of God’s oversight in all that is published or said.

He stressed that irresponsible use of these platforms can harm social relationships, spread rumors and falsehoods, and infringe on people’s reputations and property. He urged caution against impersonated accounts and fake websites, highlighting the gravity of words and reminding that everything shared or said on digital platforms is subject to accountability.

Warnings over AI crimes and digital fraud

Al-Sudais cautioned against using artificial intelligence and computer applications for forgery, fabricating videos, voice imitation, identity theft, and attributing statements or images to the wrong people. He affirmed that such acts constitute forbidden falsehoods, violate people’s rights, and aid the spread of falsehoods.

He pointed out that misuse of modern technologies leads to harms affecting individuals, families, and society, including privacy violations, fraud, confusion, undermining trust, and threatening community security.

Call for verification and national unity

Al-Sudais stressed the importance of verifying the authenticity of news, images, and videos before sharing them, in accordance with Islamic teachings. He warned against circulating unverified news or fabricated clips due to their negative impact and contradiction of Islamic values.

In the second sermon, he affirmed that Islamic law calls for unity and harmony and rejects division. He warned against crimes linked to social media, such as blackmail, defamation, rumor-mongering, and slander. He called for confronting attempts to sow discord, using technology to serve religion and the nation, and raising awareness of the dangers of unlawful uses.

Condemnation of terrorist attacks and prayers for the Kingdom’s security

Al-Sudais condemned the criminal terrorist attacks targeting Makkah and Madinah, stressing that the security of the Two Holy Mosques is a red line that cannot be crossed. He prayed for God to protect Saudi Arabia from all harm, to maintain its security, stability, and prosperity, to grant success to its leadership, to safeguard its security personnel, and to preserve the unity of Muslims.