Airtel launches India's first AI-powered spam detection solution

Airtel has introduced an AI-powered spam detection tool. This tool is the first-ever solution in India by a telecom provider.

In Short

• Airtel's spam detection tool is designed as a dual-layer protection: Network and IT system layer
• The network utilises a cutting-edge AI algorithm
• The tool will filter out both calls and SMS

Bharti Airtel has launched India's first-ever network-based spam detection method. This new spam detection uses AI to keep away the issue of spam calls and messages for its customers. As a pioneering solution from a telecom provider in the country, the tool will notify customers in real-time about suspected spam calls and SMS, offering enhanced protection against unwanted communication. 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 solving 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”.

How does it work?

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

The network utilises a cutting-edge AI algorithm to analyse various real-time factors like the caller or sender's usage patterns, call/SMS frequency, call duration, and other parameters. This enables the system to process and evaluate communication behaviour dynamically and efficiently. By cross-referencing this information against known spam patterns, the system flags suspected spam calls and SMS 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 behaviour. By layering these protective measures, the company is ensuring its customers receive maximum level of defence against the evolving landscape of spam and fraud threats.

According to the CEO, the solution has been able to successfully identify 100 million potential spam calls and 3 million spam SMS originating every day.