The RealReal Tightens AI Shopping Defenses

The RealReal, a leading secondhand luxury fashion retailer, has updated its bot defense mechanisms to make it harder for AI agents to purchase items on its platform. This follows reports that AI tools like Meta's Muse could exploit the site's reserve system, blocking human shoppers for extended periods. The company's chief technology officer, Luke Friang, confirmed that the system now significantly hinders AI agents from logging in, adding items to carts, and completing purchases. While AI agents can still surface product listings, the changes aim to protect the user experience and prevent unfair advantages.