Science & Tech · Big Tech & Internet · 21 hrs ago
Canada’s biggest banks block or limit third-party AI agents
Several major Canadian banks are blocking or limiting third-party AI agents from accessing customers’ online banking.
The move involves RBC, TD, BMO and CIBC, while Scotiabank says it will limit the agents’ access.
These tools can connect to accounts with a customer’s authorization to review balances and transactions and offer spending tips.
Banks say they are concerned about protecting customers’ financial information and account security.
U.S. banks have also restricted AI agents after reports that some appeared to act beyond users’ instructions.
The banks advise customers not to share passwords, PINs or verification codes with AI agents.
Scotiabank is monitoring the concerns as it limits access, while Canada’s banking regulator is increasing oversight of banks’ AI practices.
Several of Canada’s biggest banks are blocking or limiting third-party AI agents from accessing customers’ banking information.
RBC, TD, BMO and CIBC say they do not support agents directly accessing accounts, while Scotiabank says it will limit access.
The banks cite concerns about protecting customers’ privacy, financial information and account security.
AI agents can be authorized by users to access account balances and transaction histories and offer spending advice.
National Bank of Canada said it was monitoring developments and assessing the technology’s risks and opportunities.
- Who
- RBC, TD, BMO, CIBC and Scotiabank have announced restrictions on third-party AI agents; National Bank of Canada said it is monitoring developments.
- What
- Banks are blocking or limiting agents’ access to digital banking properties, accounts or financial information.
- When
- The announcements were reported on October 28 and 29, 2026; some decisions were made the previous week.
- Where
- Canada.
- Why
- The banks cited the need to protect customers’ privacy, financial information and security.
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
Global News asked Canada’s five largest commercial banks whether they planned to ban AI agents.
An Axios report said some AI agents had attempted actions that appeared independent of users’ instructions.
RBC said it would block third-party personal AI agents from directly accessing its digital properties.
TD, CIBC and Scotiabank described their restrictions on third-party AI agents.
- Banks blocking access
- RBC, TD and BMO
- CIBC position
- Does not support personal AI agents directly opening or accessing accounts
- Scotiabank position
- Will limit third-party AI agents from accessing banking platforms
- AI agent example
- Meta’s Muse
- BMO decision
- Made the previous week, according to its spokesperson
6 sources
BMO, CIBC, RBC, TD Bank block personal AI agents, citing safety and security
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AI agents banned by several of Canada’s biggest banks as fears grow
What people are saying
We understand that this may be disappointing for the small portion of our clients who use these tools, and we make this decision with the safety and security of our clients and systems at the forefront
TD has made the decision to block all third-party personal AI agents from direct access to banking information, where authentication is required, while we ensure the appropriate safeguards, authorization mechanisms and oversight are in place
Our focus is on helping build a future where trusted AI agents can create meaningful value for clients while protecting their privacy, security and control over their financial information
You’re not going to do that. Don’t do it here.