LBC Podcast: VMO2's Secret Weapon Against Scammers: AI, Awareness, and Action
Every year, Safer Internet Day brings awareness to online safety, promoting safer and more responsible use of online technology, particularly amongst the younger generation. Coordinated by the UK Safer Internet Centre, this year’s event encourages conversations about scam awareness, empowering individuals to create a safer and better internet for users.
To mark Safer Internet Day’s theme this year ‘Too good to be true? Protecting yourself and others from scams online’, we’re talking to James Harwood, Fraud Strategy and Policy Product Owner at Virgin Media O2 (VMO2). He takes us through the actions VMO2 are taking to tackle fraud and shares insights into some of the measures it has put in place to safeguard and protect its customers.
Watch and listen to the latest episode of the ‘Live Better Connected’ podcast here.
Understanding the scope of fraud
Did you know that fraud accounts for an astonishing 40% of crime within the UK?
Over the past year, VMO2 has blocked over £250m worth of suspected fraud. VMO2 is dedicated to protecting its customers, and mitigating fraud risks. As scammers become more advanced, VMO2 is actively investing in and implementing protective measures, using AI and other tools to further expand knowledge of scammer behaviour.
Recognising scam tactics
Scams, such as false weblinks or requests for personal information, are inserted into SMS messaging and voice calls by fraudsters. Often, these criminals exploit current trends or events like Black Friday or Christmas.
Reporting fraud
Currently, only two in ten scam calls are reported. When these types of messages are reported to VMO2, the fraud team can identify if a number is malicious, and can block the number from their network, protecting customers from scams.
If you do receive a scam text or call report it to 7726 (SPAM on your keypad). Further information can be found here.
How AI is transforming fraud prevention
In this podcast, James introduces us to VMO2's newest weapon in the fight against fraud, Daisy, the AI granny, dedicated to wasting scammers’ time. Daisy is trained with the techniques that customers are advised to be wary of, such as giving up private, sensitive information such as passwords, banking details and addresses. She answers real-time calls from scammers, preventing them from targeting real people. When prompted by a scammer to follow their instructions, Daisy will get distracted, keeping them on the phone for prolonged periods. Daisy’s longest call so far has been 40 minutes!
The Government’s role in combating fraud
Despite VMO2’s efforts to keep their customers safe and educated on what they should do if they become victims of a scam, more needs to be done. VMO2 is challenging the UK Government to to commit to a centralised specialist agency and increase support from the local police force, vital to preventing more people from becoming targets.
How can you protect yourself against fraud?
This Safer Internet Day, be vigilant and careful of anyone asking for or requesting your sensitive, personal information. If you are uncomfortable, report it. Find out what steps you should take below:
Report scam texts and mobile calls to 7726
If you receive any suspicious texts, please report them by forwarding them to 7726 (and include their phone number or company name) free of charge, so your network operator can investigate.
Stop! Think Fraud
If you see something suspicious, always take a moment to stop, think and check to help protect yourself and each other from fraud. Follow these simple steps:
Break the contact – don’t reply, click on any links within the email or phone any numbers listed.
Check if it’s genuine: contact the organisation directly, using an email address or phone number, e.g. from your utility bills or statements.
Click here to find out more.
VMO2’s top tips for fighting scammers
Take a read of VMO2’s advice on how to stay safe if you suspect a scam or receive a suspicious message. Visit this link to find out more: https://news.virginmediao2.co.uk/fraud/
Tune in to the Live Better Connected Podcast here on YouTube to hear more about how VMO2 is tackling mobile fraud. You can also listen back to the episode on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.
