AI-Fueled Bug Hunt Redraws the Security Patch Landscape

AI agents are increasingly autonomously finding software flaws and crafting exploits, upending bug-bounty economics as researchers log far more discoveries and attackers speed up development. Major programs are trimming or shifting payouts (Curl’s bounty ended; Google adjusted Chrome/Android rewards) and experts warn that faster zero-days and compressed disclosure windows could pressure quicker patches. The trend, including industry calls for structural defenses and architecture changes, suggests a future where human-led bug hunting remains essential but must be complemented by better-infrastructure that makes many bugs irrelevant.