Company
Date Published
Author
Jin-Hee Lee
Word count
1567
Language
English
Hacker News points
None

Summary

Cloudflare has introduced a new classification system for bot traffic, distinguishing between verified bots and a new category known as signed agents. While verified bots are recognized for their transparency and adherence to specific guidelines, signed agents are directed by end users rather than a single company, utilizing cryptographic signatures through Web Bot Auth for identity verification. This new classification aims to provide more precise control and visibility over automated traffic, allowing customers to set granular security preferences while maintaining a clear distinction between benign and malicious activities. The initiative includes partnerships with entities like ChatGPT agent, Goose from Block, Browserbase, and Anchor Browser, enabling these agents to operate on behalf of end users with reliable and responsible web access. Cloudflare's updated Radar directory now features these classifications, offering enhanced transparency into bot and agent traffic patterns, ultimately facilitating a more controlled and secure interaction between websites and automated agents.