Bot detection analyzes signals such as request rate, browser characteristics, navigation patterns, interaction timing, network reputation, and challenge responses. Websites use it to limit abuse, scraping, credential attacks, fraudulent transactions, and automated activity that violates service rules.
Detection is probabilistic and can block legitimate automation or accessibility tools. Browser agents should respect site terms and stop when a challenge denies access rather than attempting to bypass it. Operators should also warn users when automation could affect an account's standing.
ELI5
Bot detection helps an online service recognize when software rather than a person is making requests. It can then decide whether the automated visitor is welcome, restricted, charged, challenged, or blocked.
For example, a seller may allow an identified shopping agent to read prices while blocking a bot that sends thousands of abusive requests. Because detection can be wrong, uncertain traffic should not always receive the harshest response.
