Bots

Bots are software programs that are programmed to achieve predetermined missions. Bots range from simplistic script bots to more sophisticated smart bots that can aid in server processing functions. Bots are automated technology that can perform uniquely human functions, which operate without the need for human assistance once programmed. Bots can be used to follow or interact with profiles on social media platforms such as Twitter. Bots are increasingly a visible and invisible force in the production of news, social media, the spread of misinformation, aggregation, customer service, and artificial intelligence (AI). This entry examines bots in the context of newsgathering and discusses different types of bots. The entry also discusses past and potential future bots.