Some Online Stores Are Blocking AI Shopping Helpers

Some online stores are shutting the door on AI shopping helpers. These are programs that browse, pick items and sometimes pay for you. The RealReal, Amazon, Kohl's and others now block or limit them, even as millions of people try Meta's new agent, called Muse.

What happened

The RealReal, a secondhand luxury site, said it is strengthening its defenses against AI agents. The Verge found that shoppers can put an item "on hold" for 20 minutes by adding it to a cart. Reporters used Muse agents to keep items on hold for hours, which stopped other shoppers from buying them. The RealReal will now make it harder for agents to log in, add items to carts and check out.

Who else is saying no

The RealReal is not alone. According to the Wall Street Journal, Tapestry (the parent of Coach and Kate Spade) and Kohl's do not let AI agents complete purchases. Chewy and Neiman Marcus block some agents.

• Delta Air Lines told TechCrunch it does not yet allow agents to buy tickets for flyers.
• Many users report that Muse cannot shop on its own at brands like Adidas.
• Amazon quickly blocked Muse after Meta launched it, but offers its own helper, Alexa for Shopping.

Banks are wary too

Financial institutions have warned about safety and privacy risks when AI agents handle money. Several banks are reportedly moving to block third-party shopping agents from reaching customer accounts. Their worry is a rogue agent making purchases nobody approved.

Why people use them anyway

Interest is strong. Meta released Muse early last month. Mark Zuckerberg said on an earnings call that more than 10 million people in the United States and Canada have set up personal agents, mostly for shopping. He also said more than a quarter of users make an average purchase above $200.

What to do

If you plan to let an AI buy for you, test it on a small purchase first. A store may stop the agent at checkout, and your bank may limit it as well. Stores with their own helper, like Amazon, may work better with that one. It is not yet clear whether blocking stores will change their minds, or which banks are limiting agents.