Merge branch 'kj/my-first-contribution-updates': The Unyielding Battle Against AI Scrapers

As you read this article, you're likely experiencing the effects of Anubis, the server-side security measure designed to protect websites from the scourge of AI-powered scrapers. This technological hurdle has become a reality for many online platforms, forcing administrators to weigh the importance of website accessibility against the need for robust protection.

The story behind Anubis is one of compromise and adaptation. Born out of necessity, this Proof-of-Work scheme aims to dissuade AI-powered scrapers from targeting websites without imposing an undue burden on legitimate users. By introducing a small additional load at the individual scale, while making it prohibitively expensive for mass scrapers, Anubis strikes a delicate balance between security and accessibility.

But what is Anubis, exactly? Simply put, it's a response to the growing threat of AI-driven web scraping. These sophisticated algorithms can traverse websites with unprecedented speed and accuracy, often leaving legitimate users in the dust. By introducing this added layer of security, administrators can mitigate these threats while still ensuring that their website remains accessible to its intended audience.

So, how does it work? At its core, Anubis relies on a Proof-of-Work scheme inspired by Hashcash, a proposed solution for reducing email spam. While the concept may seem straightforward, its implications are far-reaching and multifaceted. By requiring users to complete a simple challenge – typically involving JavaScript rendering or other modern features – Anubis creates an invisible barrier that separates legitimate from malicious traffic.

However, there's a catch: this added layer of security comes with a price. In order to bypass the challenge, users must enable JavaScript, which can be a significant ask for those who prefer a no-JS experience. Moreover, plugins like JShelter, designed to disable JavaScript on websites, may render Anubis ineffective. As a result, administrators must weigh their options carefully and choose between website accessibility and robust security.

Ultimately, the introduction of Anubis marks a turning point in the evolving social contract around website hosting. With AI-powered scrapers increasingly targeting online platforms, it's clear that this is no longer a battle for scraps – but a fight for control over the very fabric of the web itself. While there may not be a definitive solution just yet, one thing is certain: the era of Anubis has begun, and we can expect to see its impact felt in the months and years to come.