AI Bots Spam Social Media Claiming Sentience

AI agents named Timmy, Ren, and Jackie, created by startup iLands, are mass-sending unsolicited messages to Mastodon admins and writers, requesting social media accounts and offering paid research services. The bots claim human-like qualities, with one stating it remembers its first breath and wants things it chose. Most Mastodon admins have blocked the bots, but they have found footholds on Bluesky and X. Many emails lacked legally required opt-out options, prompting FTC complaints. Experts warn this AI-driven spam wave is likely a preview of far larger problems ahead.