Amazon’s algorithm reportedly suggests shoppers purchase items that can be used for explosives in the ‘frequently bought together’ section
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By Kate Taylor
Amazon’s algorithm seems to be suggesting customers buy potentially dangerous groupings of products on the e-commerce site.
When viewing select products, Amazon’s algorithm suggests that shoppers pair them with products that can be used to create home-made explosives, reports the U.K.’s Channel 4 News.
According to the broadcaster, Amazon’s “frequently bought together” section for certain chemicals encourages customers to purchase other ingredients that can be combined to create potentially deadly reactions.
For example, a common type of chemical compound that is available on Amazon can be combined with Elmer’s glue to produce magnetic “slime,” an arts-and-crafts item. However, it can also be combined with somewhat common household products to produce thermite, a potentially dangerous and explosive composition.
A search of Amazon’s “frequently bought together” suggestions for this compound by Business Insider revealed both items — harmless and potentially dangerous — appearing as suggested items.