Consumers need protection from AI agents, lawmaker says

As artificial intelligence increasingly permeates the U.S. economy, Senator Mark Warner is championing a new legislative effort to govern AI agents – autonomous bots capable of tasks like booking travel and online shopping. The proposed "Artificial Intelligence Access, Gatekeeper Exchange and Nondiscriminatory Transfer, or AI Agent, Act" seeks to implement pioneering privacy and security measures.

Warner, a Democrat from Virginia, stated that the bill is designed to shield consumers and businesses from the potential hazards associated with AI agent usage. "As agentic AI transforms how Americans interact with technology, consumers deserve a real choice in the marketplace – and AI agents must be accountable to the people they serve," Warner said in a statement. He emphasized the bill's role in fostering innovation while safeguarding consumers.

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As agentic AI transforms how Americans interact with technology, consumers deserve a real choice in the marketplace – and AI agents must be accountable to the people they serve. This discussion draft is a major step toward building a clear federal framework that promotes innovation, protects consumers and ensures the United States continues to lead the world in emerging technology.

The draft legislation outlines specific rights and responsibilities for AI agents interacting with large online platforms. A core tenet is ensuring these agents operate in the user's best interest. To bolster consumer confidence, the bill proposes creating a Federal Trade Commission registry of vetted AI agents, thereby helping to prevent personal information from falling into the wrong hands.

"An AI agent that has access to a user's most sensitive data and access rights – including email, e-commerce accounts and credit cards – must behave in fiduciary-like manner to protect users," a summary of the proposal reads. The measure mandates that AI agents prioritize user privacy, protect collected data, and act ethically. Warner is currently soliciting feedback on the draft before its formal introduction, acknowledging the significant projected growth of AI-powered shopping assistants in e-commerce.

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An AI agent that has access to a user's most sensitive data and access rights – including email, e-commerce accounts and credit cards – must behave in fiduciary-like manner to protect users.