Bharti Airtel’s new AI-powered spam detection system has provided much-needed relief to customers in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. In the 10 days since its launch, this pioneering telecom solution has successfully identified and blocked 122 million potential spam calls and 2.3 million spam SMS messages in these two states.
All Airtel mobile customers in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana now have automatic access to the free solution without needing to request service or download an app.
Commenting on the launch, Shivan Bhargava, Chief Executive Officer, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana and Kerala, Bharti Airtel, said, “As more of our daily lives and communications have shifted online, the risk of falling victim to spams and scams has risen exponentially. To proactively address this critical issue and provide much-needed protection for its vast customer base, Airtel has proudly unveiled an innovative, AI-powered solution that stands as an example of the company’s commitment to safeguarding the security of its customers. Seamlessly integrated directly into the expansive Airtel ecosystem, this cutting-edge offering allows the consumers to enjoy its robust safeguarding benefits without the need for any additional downloads, complex setup processes, or disruptive changes to their normal routines. Through this transformative technology, Airtel is empowering its 33.8 million customers in the two Telugu states of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana with the ability to focus on their day-to-day activities and priorities without constantly worrying about potential scams or malicious attacks. By delivering this innovative solution, Airtel has solidified its reputation as a trusted, industry-leading telecom partner that consistently puts the safety and security of its valued customers first.”
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 a state-of-the-art AI algorithm analyses various parameters such as the caller or sender’s usage patterns, call/SMS frequency and 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.
A dual-layered 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 two milliseconds the solution processes 1.5 billion messages and 2.5 billion calls. This is equivalent to processing 1 trillion records on a real time basis using the power of AI.
Additionally, the solution also alerts customers to malicious links received via SMS. For this, Airtel has built a centralized database of blacklisted URLs and every SMS is scanned in real time by a state-of-the-art AI algorithm to caution users from accidently clicking on suspicious links. The solution can also detect anomalies such as frequent IMEI changes – a typical indicator of fraudulent behaviour. By layering these protective measures, the company is ensuring its customers receive the maximum level of defence against the evolving landscape of spam and fraud threats.
How does India’s AI-powered SPAM free network work?
