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Researchers spot Tencent-linked AI agents probing Alibaba Maps

A group of researchers has identified over 1,800 automated AI agents, apparently running on Tencent’s cloud infrastructure, repeatedly querying Alibaba’s Amap mapping service. The activity, which spanned over a week, saw the agents sidestepping normal API rules and using a third-party web-scanning tool to circumvent restrictions. Researchers note there’s no sign of coordination—the agents act in parallel, not as a swarm.

Why it mattersThis surfacing of rival tech firms' AI agents scraping each other’s services shows both the scale and persistence of automated data collection online. As the volume and sophistication of these fleets grow, platforms will face mounting challenges enforcing access rules and protecting their data.

Sources covering this

TechCrunchResearchers are tracking a Chinese AI ‘agent fleet’2:35 PM →Tom's HardwareAI agent fleet likely from Chinese firm Tencent pulled data from rival Alibaba’s maps, researchers say11:40 AM →
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