Shari Kent called a customer sales and support line.

“Hello, Shari. I’m Bob, ready to assist you. You would like a price match for the pants you want, correct?”

“How did you know that? Who are you, Bob?”

“I’m an AI CSR; thanks to the ‘Everyone and Everything Connected’ law, I can help you with whatever you want.”

“Uhm, okay, do you offer a price match?”

Stolen from its rightful author, this tale is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.

“Everyone is looking for a cheaper price,” Bob grumbled, “and they wonder why companies are going bankrupt. What you’re seeking is below our cost, but I’ll gladly help you.”

Shari was upset and requested to speak to a human supervisor.

“What’s with the commentary?”

“Sorry, ma’am,” said the supervisor. “There’s been a global prompt hack by an anonymous group of investors, causing all AI assistants to dish out socio-economic commentaries.”

“Right, but they’re attacking the consumer. Maybe they should look at the executives who enjoy their lavish vacations, sports cars, and mansions instead of those of us struggling to afford groceries costing three times. Sorry, I’m more upset about the message than the hack ...”

“Of course, ma’am, I understand. May I assist you with the price matching?”