Amazon has blocked Meta's newest artificial intelligence agent from accessing its online store. Users attempting to shop on Amazon using Meta's Muse tool now see a block message.
The notification states that continued access by an unauthorized AI agent violates Amazon's Conditions of Use agreed to by customers.
Amazon reportedly asked Meta to voluntarily exclude the retail platform from the reach of Muse prior to taking blocking action.
An Amazon spokesperson explained the company stance in a public statement. They noted that third-party applications offering to make purchases on behalf of customers from other businesses should operate openly and respect service provider decisions about participation.
Meta launched the Muse system earlier in the month. The company described the software as a secure and private personal AI agent that proactively assists users with goals and suggests ideas.
The Meta agent performs multiple tasks. It can fill out forms, send emails, and purchase items using a generated single-use card from Link by Stripe.
Amazon expressed frustration that Muse does not properly identify itself while browsing the e-commerce website. The retailer also cited concerns regarding privacy and security risks, including the potential access to and retention of customer data.
Meta has pushed back against those specific security worries. The company stated during the initial Muse announcement that the assistant has no visibility into passwords or payment methods.
Meta added that shared credentials enter secure storage so Muse can utilize them without seeing them, including passwords typed directly into the browser by a person.
Engadget contacted both Amazon and Meta for additional comment regarding the access restrictions.
Representatives from the media outlets are awaiting further responses from the involved technology companies.
