The tool is designed to analyse incoming messages in real-time and identify spam or fraud threats based on specific keywords, patterns, and behavioural cues.
Once flagged, the tool immediately issues a safety warning on the recipient’s phone, prompting the user to think twice before taking any action especially when urged to send money or click on suspicious links.
“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?”
This is the kind of human moment Airtel Rwanda is aiming to prevent.
The new system operates entirely at the network level meaning no app download is required, and the protection is automatically enabled for all Airtel customers. Whether it's phishing scams, fake promotions, or impersonation attempts using cleverly crafted messages, the AI tool provides a first line of defense, helping users avoid costly human errors.
“We are fully committed to building a safer digital Rwanda,” said Emmanuel Hamez, 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.”
This new AI solution works by continuously scanning messages across the network using advanced keyword recognition, frequency analysis, and fraud intelligence models. Once a message is identified as potentially harmful or suspicious, it is flagged and marked with a visible warning to the recipient such as “Gira Amakenga which Translates to Spam Alert indicating to the receiver they should proceed with caution.”
With fraud and social engineering schemes becoming more sophisticated by the day, Airtel’s new AI solution provides timely protection when customers are often most vulnerable during rushed moments, after hours, or while multitasking.
This initiative aligns with Airtel Rwanda’s broader vision of ensuring a safe, trusted, and modern network for every Rwandan, where innovation serves people first.
Airtel Rwanda introduces AI-powered technology to combat SMS scams
This AI system efficiently identifies and blocks scammers targeting Airtel customers
Emmanuel Hamez, CEO of Airtel Rwanda, calls for vigilance among Airtel customers as scams are flagged proactively
Airtel Rwanda takes a significant leap in protecting customers’ digital security
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