Cloudflare has introduced a permanent identity tool and a digital wallet designed specifically for AI-driven shopping, the company announced today. The new products aim to tighten security and simplify transactions as automated agents increasingly handle purchases on behalf of users.
What the tools do
The permanent ID tool gives each user a persistent, verifiable identity that can be used across multiple online stores and AI shopping platforms. Instead of creating separate accounts or logging in repeatedly, the ID follows the user — or their AI agent — from site to site. The wallet, meanwhile, supports stablecoin payments, letting AI agents complete purchases without needing to manage traditional credit cards or bank transfers.
Cloudflare says the system is built on its existing global network, which already handles a significant portion of the internet's traffic. The company is positioning the tools as a way to reduce fraud and friction in a market where automated shopping is expected to grow rapidly.
Why now
The rise of AI agents — programs that can browse, compare, and buy products — has created new security challenges. These agents often need access to payment methods and personal data, which can be a target for bad actors. By offering a permanent, reusable identity and a dedicated wallet, Cloudflare is trying to give users a way to authorize transactions without exposing sensitive information each time.
The wallet uses stablecoins, which are cryptocurrencies pegged to a stable asset like the US dollar. That choice avoids the volatility of other digital currencies while still allowing fast, borderless payments. Cloudflare did not specify which stablecoins would be supported, but the move signals a bet on crypto-based commerce.
For everyday users, the promise is simpler and safer online shopping. Instead of juggling passwords and payment details across dozens of sites, a single Cloudflare ID could handle authentication and checkout. The wallet would let AI agents pay on your behalf without needing your credit card number at every store.
But the system also raises questions about privacy and control. A permanent ID that follows you everywhere could become a single point of failure if compromised. Cloudflare says it has designed the tool with security in mind, but the company has not yet released detailed technical specifications or an audit by a third party.
Competition and context
Cloudflare is not the first to try solving identity and payments for AI. Several startups have launched similar wallets, and big tech companies have their own login systems. But Cloudflare's advantage is its massive existing infrastructure — it already sits between millions of websites and their visitors. That position could let it roll out the new tools faster than a newcomer.
The announcement comes as regulators in the US and Europe are scrutinizing AI agents and digital payments. Any system that centralizes identity and payments could attract attention from antitrust and privacy authorities. Cloudflare has not said when the tools will be available to the public or how much they will cost.
For now, the company is offering the permanent ID and wallet to select partners in a beta program. A wider release is expected later this year, but no firm date has been set.
