Artificial intelligence has moved beyond simple automation to become a driver of decision making in many industries. As AI agents gain more autonomy, businesses—especially small enterprises—must understand how these systems can not only enhance operations but also pose unexpected risks.

When AI agents run amok, the consequences can ripple through supply chains, customer interactions, and even regulatory compliance. By examining the causes, real‑world incidents, and mitigation tactics, small business owners can safeguard their operations while still reaping the benefits of intelligent automation.