O2 empowers users with AI tool to detect scam calls
- O2 has introduced Call Defence, an AI tool that flags suspected scam calls.
- This feature analyzes call number behavior in real time using Hiya's technology.
- The rollout aims to enhance customer safety and reduce fraudulent calls.
In the United Kingdom, O2 has rolled out a new feature called Call Defence that leverages AI technology to identify and flag potential scam or spam calls before users answer them. This innovative tool utilizes adaptive AI from the voice security firm Hiya to continuously analyze the behavior of incoming call numbers in real time. Customers on various plans, including pay monthly, SIM-only, and O2 Business, will automatically receive this feature on their Android and iPhone devices running the latest operating systems. The rollout is part of a broader initiative to enhance customer safety and reduce the number of fraudulent interactions. Murray Mackenzie, the director of fraud at Virgin Media O2, emphasized that this tool not only represents a new layer of protection against scammers but also empowers users to regain control over their phones. By implementing this system for free, O2 is setting a precedent for customer security within the telecommunications industry, aiming to significantly decrease the prevalence of nuisance calls. Such protective measures are critically important as scam calls have been on the rise, irritating consumers and posing threats to their personal and financial security. This rollout reflects O2's commitment to leveraging advanced technology for the benefit of its users and underscores a growing trend among telecom providers to incorporate AI into their services. The collaborative effort with Hiya showcases a proactive approach towards safeguarding users from the increasing rates of fraud and spam calls that plague modern communication. By boosting consumer awareness and providing real-time alerts regarding potential scams, O2 is helping to inform its users and mitigate risks associated with fraudulent activities. In conclusion, this new tool aims to not only protect users but also serve as a deterrent to fraudsters, thereby improving overall trust in communication services. As technology continues to evolve, the capabilities of AI in detecting and blocking unwanted calls will likely improve, further enhancing the user experience and security within the telecommunications landscape.