Chennai: In a major digital safety initiative, Bharti Airtel has announced that its AI-powered fraud detection system has blocked over 1.8 lakh malicious links and protected more than 3 million users in Tamil Nadu within just 25 days of its launch.

The system, which is automatically enabled for all Airtel mobile and broadband users, scans over a billion URLs daily across SMS, WhatsApp, Telegram, social media, email, and web browsers. Using real-time threat intelligence, it can block harmful websites in under 100 milliseconds, offering real-time protection against phishing, scams, and fraud.

For example, if a user in Salem clicks a suspicious link like “http://www.tracky0urparcell.com,” the system immediately scans it. If deemed dangerous, access is blocked and the user is redirected to a warning page.

“We are proud to introduce the world's first network-integrated fraud detection system in Tamil Nadu,” said Tarun Virmani, CEO - Tamil Nadu & Kerala, Bharti Airtel. “This initiative ensures a safe digital environment, especially when cyber threats are becoming more sophisticated.”

Dr. Sandeep Mittal, IPS, ADGP of the Cyber Crime Wing, praised Airtel's proactive approach. “We appreciate Airtel's transparency and collaboration. Their system will support our ongoing efforts to tackle cybercrime.”

Online frauds, including phishing and fake alerts, are on the rise in both urban and rural Tamil Nadu. Cities like Chennai, Madurai, Coimbatore, and smaller towns have reported increasing incidents. Airtel's system acts as a digital shield, protecting users across demographics—from senior citizens to first-time smartphone users.

The AI-driven tool is multilingual, including Tamil, and requires no installation or user action. Offered free of cost, the initiative strengthens Tamil Nadu's digital infrastructure, providing safer online access statewide.