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Daisy, an artificial intelligence-powered "grandma," is the latest tool in the fight against phone scammers, Fox News reports. Developed by British mobile phone company Virgin Media O2, Daisy engages scammers in lengthy conversations, wasting their time and preventing them from targeting real victims. When a scam call comes in, Daisy answers and chats with the caller, often keeping them on the line for up to 40 minutes. Her friendly demeanor and quick wit make scammers believe they are speaking with a real person, playing on their biases about older people.
Daisy was created to combat the growing problem of scam calls, which many people find frustrating and intrusive. By using AI technology, Daisy not only keeps scammers occupied but also raises awareness about common scams. This approach helps educate the public on how these scams operate, making them less likely to fall victim. According to Fox News, Daisy's development involved collaboration with YouTuber and software engineer Jim Browning, known for exposing scammers to his large audience.
Currently, Daisy is available only to Virgin Media O2 customers in the U.K. However, similar AI-driven solutions are emerging in the U.S. Companies like Apate.ai and Scamnetic are developing technologies to engage scammers and protect consumers from fraud. O2's director of fraud, Murray Mackenzie, emphasized the importance of such innovations in keeping customers safe.
While Daisy offers an entertaining way to combat scams, experts advise that the best defense is to avoid answering scam calls altogether. Reducing one's digital footprint through data removal services can also help prevent scammers from making contact. As technology evolves, staying informed and vigilant remains crucial in the ongoing battle against fraud.