Airtel Rwanda unveiled an AI-powered spam detection tool on Thursday, the first for the Rwandan telecom industry.
The tool flags suspicious SMS messages before they reach unwary customers, in a daring attempt to shield Rwandans from the growing number of SMS fraud and digital trickery incidents.
How Airtel’s AI-powered spam detection tool works
The tool uses particular keywords, patterns, and behavioural indicators to analyse incoming messages in real time and detect spam or fraud threats.
After being flagged, the tool instantly displays a safety warning on the recipient’s phone, encouraging them to reconsider their actions, particularly when urged to send money or click on dubious links.
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“How many of you have received a message from a number you do not know urging you to send money to a number that you do not know or recognize—and because the message is well written, you’ve gone ahead and sent the money because it came at a time when you were busy with something else only to realize later that you’ve been defrauded,” Airtel queried.
No need for app
No app needs to be downloaded because the new system functions entirely at the network level, and all Airtel customers are automatically protected.
Regarding phishing scams, fraudulent promotions, or attempts at impersonation through carefully crafted messages, the AI tool serves as a first line of defence, assisting users in avoiding expensive human errors.
“We are fully committed to building a safer digital Rwanda,” said Emmanuel H., Managing Director of Airtel Rwanda.
“This AI tool is a strong statement that we will not allow spammers and social engineers to exploit our customers. Our network must not be a platform for fraud, it must be a trusted space where all Rwandans feel safe to connect, transact, and enjoy their digital lives with confidence.”
AI-powered Solution uses sophisticated keyword recognition
This new AI solution uses sophisticated keyword recognition, frequency analysis, and fraud intelligence models to continuously scan messages across the network.
A message is flagged and marked with a visible warning to the recipient, such as “Gira Amakenga,” which translates to “spam alert,” alerting them to proceed cautiously, once it is determined to be potentially harmful or suspicious.
Airtel’s new AI solution offers prompt protection when customers are most vulnerable, such as during rushed moments, after hours, or multitasking, as fraud and social engineering schemes become more complex daily.
Airtel Rwanda’s overarching goal of providing every Rwandan with a modern, safe, and trustworthy network where innovation puts people first aligns with this initiative.