Airtel Tanzania Applauded for AI-Powered Spam Alert Service Tackling Mobile Fraud

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Experts in communication and consumer protection have commended Airtel Tanzania for launching an innovative Artificial Intelligence (AI) solution aimed at combating mobile fraud. The newly introduced Airtel Spam Alert – ‘Kataa Matapeli’ uses AI to detect and warn users about suspicious messages in real time, offering crucial protection amid increasing digital fraud, especially in underserved areas.

During a stakeholder meeting in Dar es Salaam, Mary Shayo, Executive Secretary of the TCRA Consumer Consultative Council, highlighted the growing threat of mobile fraud, which leads to financial losses and erodes trust in digital platforms. “Fraud affects not just finances but public confidence in mobile services, which are essential to daily life,” she said. Shayo praised Airtel’s initiative as timely and aligned with the national #SITAPELIKI campaign, which focuses on raising awareness and combating digital crime through collaboration with telecom operators. “This service is a strong example of how innovation can directly enhance consumer safety,” she added.

Florence Mtuka from the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology also praised the initiative, especially as mobile use grows in rural areas. “As smartphone use spreads, so does exposure to scams. AI tools like this help protect users, particularly in regions where understanding scam messages can be difficult,” he said.

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Designed to work on both smartphones and feature phones, Airtel’s Spam Alert uses AI to analyse message patterns and historical scam data to detect and notify users of potential threats. This AI-powered tool empowers users to assess messages before responding, helping create a safer, more inclusive digital space.

The Spam Alert service is one of several measures by mobile operators to support national efforts in building a secure and accessible digital ecosystem for all Tanzanians.