O2 launches AI Scam Call Detection Service to tackle Fraud Calls

O2 has launched a free AI-powered scam call detection service that flags suspected scam and nuisance calls.

Known as Call Defence, the service uses Adaptive AI to analyse call number behaviour in real-time and determine whether it could be a scam or nuisance call.

O2 customers are then alerted to any risk before picking up.

Scammers frequently call Brits claiming to be from trusted businesses in the hope of catching them off guard and gaining personal and financial information.

According to Hiya’s State of the Call report, 16% of UK consumers fell victim to phone scams in 2023, losing an average of £798 each.

This AI-powered technology will act as an early warning system to help customers stay safe and avoid falling victim to fraud.

It will also ensure that they do not waste their time dealing with unwanted calls.

It is being rolled out to O2 customers on Pay Monthly custom plans, Pay Monthly SIM Only plans and O2 Business customers.

This technology will be automatically rolled out to Android users and Apple customers using the latest iOS 18 and above.

Murray Mackenzie, Director of Fraud at Virgin Media O2, said:

“Our AI-powered scam and spam call detection tool is the latest layer of defence we’re rolling out to help protect our customers from fraudsters.

“We’re the first and only UK provider to give customers this innovative new tool for free.”

“This will monitor call behaviour to provide customers greater clarity on who is calling and why, constantly adapting to help keep one step ahead of scammers.

“Whether we’re blocking calls and texts from fraudsters or rolling out Caller ID for trusted businesses, we’re working hard to stop scammers in their tracks.

“But with fraudsters forever evolving their tactics, customers can help us stay one step ahead by reporting suspected scam calls and texts to 7726.”

Kush Parikh, President of Hiya, added:

“We’re excited to partner with O2 to bring innovative AI-powered scam protection to millions of customers across the UK via their Call Defence service.

“By leveraging Hiya’s Adaptive AI technology and offering it to its customers for free, O2 is setting a new standard in protecting people and businesses from fraudulent and nuisance calls.

“Together, we’re empowering consumers to take back control of their phones, helping them stay safe and informed while blocking bad actors in real-time.”