OpenAI adds business profiles and customer chat agents to ChatGPT
The initial rollout of Business Agents is limited to eligible U.S. e-commerce and online service businesses.
United Airlines plans AI bot restrictions, citing security risks
The carrier says its planned limits will cover direct access and access through travel agencies and aggregators.
United Airlines said November 11 it would limit AI bots’ access to its digital services because of data-security concerns, as AI assistants become increasingly capable of arranging travel for users.
The airline said giving outside AI assistants account login details could put sensitive data at risk. It warned that such access could result in purchases travelers did not intend, changes to accounts or frequent-flyer miles being used without permission.
United also cited potential regulatory problems with automated check-in. That process requires travelers to personally acknowledge restrictions on prohibited items, including explosives, the carrier said.
Its planned restrictions will apply both to bots accessing United’s platforms themselves and to those reaching its services through travel agencies or aggregators. The airline said it would revise policies governing distribution, bookings and ticketing as part of the effort.
Other companies have taken different approaches to AI agents. Amazon has barred Meta’s Muse agent, while Walmart has partnered with it. Travel companies Expedia and Booking are working with OpenAI, the company behind ChatGPT.