O2 is rolling out new caller identification technology to help millions of customers spot when a scammer is calling them.
Brand ID is being described by O2 as an “anti-fraud filter” that displays caller information after it verifies the company making the call. So far, more than 150 UK businesses, including major banks and insurers, have already signed up.
The new technology is powered by voice security leader Hiya and is being rolled out automatically to millions of O2 pay-monthly and business customers over the coming months, starting with those using Android smartphones. O2 will also introduce Call Defence, a free AI-powered spam fighting tool to help further protect mobile customers from fraud, later this year.
Murray Mackenzie, Director of Fraud at Virgin Media O2, said: “As part of our relentless efforts to stop the scammers, we’re rolling out next-generation caller ID to provide our customers with reliable information about who is calling before they even pick up the phone. By giving them confidence in who is calling and why, customers will be better able to spot fraudulent call attempts and ensure they’re only speaking to people and organisations they want to.
“With more than a hundred major UK businesses already signed up to the service, this free feature will help give our customers greater peace of mind.” Kush Parikh, Hiya President, said: “O2 is leading the way in revitalising the value of the mobile phone call experience.
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“Offering a free anti-scam solution is the response that every carrier in Europe should be taking, as it is the only way to ensure that all subscribers are protected without leaving coverage gaps that fraudsters can exploit. We are proud to partner with O2 for call protection and branded calling across the UK.”
How to report scams
If you suspect a scammer is calling you, hang up immediately and search for the contact details online of the place you're supposedly being called from. Never call back the number provided by the caller. Contact your bank straight away if you think a fraudster has got access to your account. You can call the 159 hotline, which will connect you to your bank.
Passwords that have been leaked or compromised should be changed immediately. Make sure you report scams and fraud to Action Fraud by calling 0300 123 2040, or through the Action Fraud website. If you're in Scotland, report a scam through Advice Direct Scotland on 0808 164 6000 or on the Advice Direct Scotland website.
You can also report scams to Police Scotland on 101. For scam emails, forward them to report@phishing.gov.uk, and for scam text messages, forward them to 7726 for free. You can report dodgy websites to the National Cyber Security Centre.
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