Full Breakdown
Amazon Secures Court Order Against Perplexity's AI Shopping Agent
3/11/2026, 8:08:16 PM
Court Ruling Blocks Perplexity's Access to Amazon
A federal judge has issued a temporary injunction preventing Perplexity AI Inc. from using its Comet web browser to make purchases on Amazon.com. U.S. District Judge Maxine Chesney ruled that Amazon provided "strong evidence" that Perplexity's AI agents accessed user accounts without authorization. The lawsuit, filed by Amazon in November 2025, accused Perplexity of computer fraud for allegedly concealing its AI activities and failing to comply with requests to cease operations that intruded on Amazon's marketplace.
The ruling, dated March 6, 2026, prohibits Perplexity from accessing password-protected sections of Amazon's systems, specifically targeting Prime subscriber accounts. The court also mandated the destruction of any data obtained from Amazon. The injunction will take effect in seven days, allowing Perplexity time to appeal the decision.
Background of the Dispute
The conflict centers around Perplexity's Comet browser, which allows users to shop on Amazon through AI agents. Amazon contends that these agents pose security risks and disrupt its advertising business by generating automated traffic that complicates billing processes. The e-commerce giant claims that Perplexity's actions undermine customer trust and violate the federal Computer Fraud and Abuse Act.
Perplexity has characterized Amazon's lawsuit as a "bully tactic" aimed at stifling competition. The startup argues that its AI agents enhance consumer choice and that Amazon's concerns are more about protecting its advertising revenue than about user security.
Official Statements & Responses
Amazon spokesperson Lara Hendrickson stated that the ruling is crucial for maintaining a "trusted shopping experience" for customers. She emphasized that the injunction will prevent unauthorized access to Amazon's store and expressed anticipation for further legal proceedings.
In contrast, Perplexity spokesperson Jesse Dwyer affirmed the company's commitment to fighting for users' rights to choose their preferred AI tools, asserting that the lawsuit threatens innovation in the AI space.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics of Amazon's actions argue that the lawsuit reflects a broader trend of established companies attempting to suppress emerging technologies that challenge their business models. Perplexity has claimed that Amazon's legal maneuvers are designed to eliminate competition rather than address legitimate security concerns.
What's Next
Perplexity has filed an appeal against the injunction, which will be reviewed by the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals. The company has 30 days to certify compliance with the court's ruling regarding the destruction of Amazon's data. The outcome of this case could set significant precedents for the use of AI in e-commerce and the legal boundaries surrounding agentic commerce.
Verbatim Quotes
“Amazon has provided strong evidence that Perplexity, through its Comet browser, accesses with the Amazon user’s permission but without authorization by Amazon, the user’s password-protected account,” — U.S. District Judge Maxine Chesney
“The preliminary injunction will prevent Perplexity’s unauthorized access to the Amazon store and is an important step in maintaining a trusted shopping experience for Amazon customers.” — Lara Hendrickson, Amazon Spokesperson
“will continue to fight for the right of internet users to choose whatever AI they want.” — Jesse Dwyer, Perplexity Spokesperson
