Creative Ways to Mess with AI Bots

AI bots are everywhere, combing through our websites to feed large language models (LLMs). While some see them as a boon, others see them as a bane. Either way, if you’re a webmaster, you have the power to engage with these bots in creative, chaotic, or protective ways. Inspired by some ingenious minds across the web, here are some fun and unconventional ideas to interact with AI bots—and links to learn more.

1. Overload the Bots with Giant Files

Robb Knight (@robb) suggests a devilishly entertaining approach: using the robots.txt file to point AI scrapers toward a gigantic file. Imagine them slogging through a 10GB file filled with nonsense data. It’s not only a clever way to deter the bots but might also make you chuckle at the sheer audacity of it.

Eric W. Bailey makes a compelling argument for enforcing consent when dealing with LLM scrapers. He discusses using metadata, like the robots.txt file, to signal your site’s willingness (or unwillingness) to share data with AI bots.

3. Block the Bots Entirely

If you’re not in the mood for games and just want to say “no” to AI bots, there are ways to block them outright. Ethan Marcotte’s guide shows how you can use headers or robots.txt to prevent scrapers from accessing your site.

4. Creative Coding: Responses That Surprise

Some developers have gone further, crafting responses tailored for AI bots that scrape their sites. One example, found in this GitHub commit, implements clever server-side code to confuse scrapers while preserving user experience.

5. Add a Touch of Whimsy

For a lighthearted approach, some webmasters inject humor into their interactions with bots. Whether it’s serving funny error messages or hidden Easter eggs, there’s room to get playful while managing web scraping. Check out more ideas here.

Bonus Tips

Use headers like X-Robots-Tag to manage bots at a granular level.
Regularly audit your site’s logs to see who (or what) is visiting.
If you’re feeling especially mischievous, experiment with “bot honeypots” to trap and divert scrapers.

Website owners can take control of their content’s exposure to AI bots with creativity and intent. Whether you want to block, mislead, or simply have fun, these strategies offer a variety of paths forward. Just remember to balance your actions with the ethical considerations that come with them.