Bharti Airtel, one of India’s leading telecom providers, has released an insightful report detailing the performance of its AI-driven spam detection system, marking a major achievement in enhancing network security. Launched to combat spam, the solution has flagged over 8 billion spam calls and 0.8 billion spam SMS messages within just two and a half months. This accomplishment highlights Airtel’s commitment to using advanced technology for improved user privacy and security.
Key Highlights of Airtel’s AI Initiative
- Spam Detection at Scale: The system identifies nearly 1 million spammers daily, flagging 6% of all calls and 2% of SMS messages as spam.
- Customer Alerts: Over 252 million unique users have been alerted to suspicious activity since the system’s deployment.
- Impact on User Behavior: The initiative has resulted in a 12% reduction in users answering spam calls, significantly minimizing disruptions.
Spam Trends and Insights
Landline Role: Alarmingly, 35% of spam calls originate from landline telephones, highlighting a less-regulated spam channel.
- Delhi records the highest number of spam calls, followed by Andhra Pradesh and Western Uttar Pradesh.
- Gujarat, Kolkata, and Uttar Pradesh lead as the top sources for spam SMS messages.
- Targeted Demographics and Patterns
- Gender and Age: Men are disproportionately targeted, with 76% of spam calls aimed at male customers. The 36-60 age group faces the most spam, accounting for 48% of calls, followed by the 26-35 age group at 26%.
- Device Preferences: Devices priced between ₹15,000 and ₹20,000 are most commonly targeted, with users of these devices receiving 22% of flagged calls.
Timing and Behavioral Trends
- Peak Hours: Spam activity begins at 9 am, peaking between noon and 3 pm, and drops significantly by 40% on Sundays.
Setting Industry Standards
Airtel’s AI-powered spam detection system is the first of its kind in India, enabling real-time detection of spam calls and messages. By significantly enhancing privacy and reducing disruptions, the initiative sets a new benchmark for telecom security in the country.
Airtel’s proactive measures not only enhance user convenience but also pave the way for more comprehensive security standards in the telecom industry. The company remains at the forefront of innovation, driving a safer and more secure digital experience for its customers.
