Airtel Launches AI Spam Alert in Nigeria

Airtel, one of Africa’s leading telecommunications providers, has launched a groundbreaking Artificial Intelligence (AI)-driven Spam Alert Service in Nigeria, aimed at tackling the growing issues of spam messages and fraud.

Speaking at the launch event held in Lagos on Thursday, Dinesh Balsingh, Managing Director of Airtel Nigeria, revealed that the innovative service will be rolled out across Airtel’s 14-country footprint.

Notably, Airtel subscribers in Nigeria can access the service at no additional cost.

The AI-powered solution detects and alerts users in real-time about suspected spam SMS, safeguarding them from potential fraud and cyber threats.

Highlighting the company’s commitment to technology-driven customer solutions, Balsingh said, “this is a game changer for the telecoms industry in Africa and as we move forward, we will continue to address customer challenges through proactive tech-driven solutions.” 

The service is built on a proprietary dual-layer protection system that analyses over 250 parameters, including sender behavior, SMS frequency, and target location patterns.

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Capable of filtering over 1.5 billion messages within two milliseconds, it also features a centralised database of blacklisted URLs to warn users about suspicious links.

“With the launch of this AI-powered Spam Alert Service, Airtel Africa has reaffirmed its commitment to delivering innovative solutions that enhance customer experience, safety, and digital inclusion across the continent.

“As Airtel continues to expand its footprint, it is expected that this pioneering solution will set a new standard for the telecoms industry in Africa.

“Also, as the digital landscape continues to evolve, Airtel Africa remains at the forefront, pushing boundaries and shaping the future of telecommunications in Africa,” said Balsingh.

He emphasised that as Airtel continues to expand, the pioneering solution will set new benchmarks for Africa’s telecom industry.

The initiative has received commendation from key stakeholders, including Dr. Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy.

Dr. Tijani lauded Airtel’s efforts in boosting Nigeria’s technology ecosystem, particularly through solutions that enhance online security and foster digital inclusion.

Similarly, Dr. Aminu Maida, Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission, hailed the service as a major step in addressing the security challenges faced by telecom subscribers.

As the digital landscape evolves, Airtel Africa continues to push the boundaries of innovation, shaping the future of telecommunications across the continent.

NAN/ Chidimma Gold