The hidden ways bots disrupt our lives

Millions are combing online shopping sites for last-minute gifts, but some things are selling out in the blink of an eye. The culprits may be computer programs that perform specific, repetitive tasks at breakneck speed, like buying things online en masse to be resold elsewhere at inflated prices. From online shopping, to ticket sales for concerts and events – and even fake identities that troll social media – these bots have made headlines in 2017. They'll continue to seep into our lives in myriad ways next year, too. They can be a scourge.