Airtel cracks down on SPAM, launches India’s first AI-powered network solution for SPAM detection

Highlights

• AI solution processes 1 trillion records on a real time basis.

• Flags 100 million spam calls and 3 million SMSes every day.

• Airtel has introduced a new AI-powered spam detection tool to combat spam calls and messages in India.

• This innovative solution automatically alerts customers to suspected spam, offering real-time protection.

• Available to all Airtel customers at no additional cost, the AI-powered spam detection tool works by analyzing various parameters such as call frequency, duration, and sender patterns.

In a pioneering move to curb the country’s spam menace, Bharti Airtel (“Airtel”), today, launched India’s first network-based, AI-powered spam detection solution that will significantly solve the issue of spam calls and messages for its customers.

A first-of-its-kind solution by a telecom service provider in the country, the tool will alert customers in real-time to all suspected spam calls and SMSes.

The solution is free of cost and will get auto activated for all Airtel customers without them having to raise a service request or download an app.

Gopal Vittal, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Bharti Airtel said, “Spam has become a menace for customers.We have spent the last twelve months to solve this comprehensively.Today marks a milestone as we launch the country’s first AI-powered spam free network that will shield our customers from the continuous onslaught of intrusive and unwanted communications.”

“Designed as a dual-layer protection, the solution has two filters – one at the network layer and the second at the IT systems layer.Every call and SMS passes through this dual-layered AI shield.In 2 milliseconds our solution processes 1.5 billion messages and 2.5 billion calls every day.This is equivalent to processing 1 trillion records on a real time basis using the power of AI.Our solution has been able to successfully identify 100 million potential spam calls and 3 million spam SMSes originating every day.For us, keeping our customers secure is a burning priority.” Vittal added.

Developed in-house by Airtel’s data scientists, the AI-powered solution uses a proprietary algorithm to identify and classify calls and SMSes as “Suspected SPAM.”

The network powered by state-of-the-art AI algorithm analyses various parameters such as the caller or sender’s usage patterns, call/SMS frequency, call duration amongst several others, on a real time basis.

By cross-referencing this information against known spam patterns, the system flags suspected spam calls and SMSes accurately.

Additionally, the solution also alerts customers to malicious links received via SMS.

For this, Airtel has built a centralised database of blacklisted URLs and every SMS is scanned in real time by a state-of-the-art AI algorithm to caution users from accidentally clicking on suspicious links.

The solution can also detect anomalies such as frequent IMEI changes – a typical indicator of fraudulent behavior.

By layering these protective measures, the company is ensuring its customers receive maximum level of defense against the evolving landscape of spam and fraud threats.

How does India’s AI-powered SPAM free network work?

The Government of India (GoI) has allocated 10-digit numbers with the prefix 160 to for service and transactional calls.

Customers can expect to receive calls from these 160-prefix series assigned to Banks, Mutual Funds, Insurance Companies, Stockbrokers, other financial institutions, Corporates, Enterprises, SMEs, big and small businesses used for making transactional and service calls.

Additionally, those customers who have not opted for Do-not-disturb (DND) and have subscribed to receiving promotional calls will continue to receive them from a 10-digit number with the prefix 140.

FAQs

What is the new Airtel AI-powered real-time spam detection solution?

Airtel has introduced a new AI-powered spam detection tool to combat spam calls and messages in India. This innovative solution automatically alerts customers to suspected spam, offering real-time protection.

Who can use the Airtel AI-powered Spam-free network?

Available to all Airtel customers at no additional cost, the AI-powered spam detection tool works by analyzing various parameters such as call frequency, duration, and sender patterns. It then compares this data to known spam characteristics to identify potential threats. If a call or message is deemed suspicious, customers will receive a real-time alert.

What all does the Airtel AI scam tool do?

Beyond spam calls and messages, the tool also safeguards customers from malicious links. By scanning incoming SMS for suspicious URLs, Airtel can prevent users from inadvertently clicking on harmful content. Additionally, the solution can detect anomalies like frequent IMEI changes, which are often associated with fraudulent activities.

With this advanced spam protection, Airtel aims to provide its customers with a safer and more enjoyable mobile experience.

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