

146: When AI Attacks
88 snips Apr 4, 2025
Xe Iaso, a software developer and creator of Anubis, dives into the world of AI bots and their relentless attacks on self-hosted systems. They discuss innovative solutions to combat scraping, including a unique proof-of-work challenge that protects resources. The conversation also explores the challenges of navigating the media server landscape, the ethical dilemmas associated with aggressive scraping practices, and Iaso’s experiences managing an overpowered homelab. Get ready for insights on open-source technology and the intricate dance between AI and security!
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Plex App Update Frustrations
- Alex is frustrated with the new Plex app update.
- He can no longer download entire TV series and live TV crashes frequently.
Blocking AI Scrapers
- Implement proof-of-work challenges to deter AI bot scrapers.
- This makes it computationally expensive for bots to access resources.
Mozilla User Agent Hack
- Most web scrapers use "Mozilla" in their user agent.
- Xe Iaso uses this to identify and block them, forcing scrapers to reveal themselves if they bypass this.