Amex introduces a framework to prevent AI agents from making unauthorized purchases
techcrunch ·
American Express has introduced the Intent Intelligence Framework to address security risks associated with AI agents making unauthorized purchases. This new system aims to capture and authenticate a customer's specific purchase intent before an agent completes a transaction, ensuring that instructions are carried through the entire lifecycle. The framework utilizes a Create Intent API to record constraints such as budget and merchant preferences, followed by user authentication. A unique Intent ID and Proof of Intent Token are generated to secure digital payment credentials, replacing actual credit card numbers during checkout. Amex emphasizes that pulling intent earlier into the flow helps mitigate risks, such as preventing transactions when an agent selects the wrong brand or product. Although disputes from agentic commerce have not yet increased, the company is acting proactively due to high consumer interest in using AI for price research and recommendations. Amex plans to discuss this initiative further at TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 and is currently engaging with partners across the payments ecosystem.
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