In the ever-evolving battle against cybercrime, technology has emerged as both a battleground and a weapon. Enter “Daisy,” the AI-powered virtual granny developed by UK-based telecommunications company O2, who has become an unlikely warrior in the fight against phone scammers. Daisy isn’t just any artificial intelligence—she’s a charming, chatty persona designed to lure scammers into wasting their time, effectively dismantling fraudulent operations from within.

The Scam-Stopping Power of an AI Granny

Daisy is not your average grandmother figure. She sounds kind, polite, and a little absent-minded, making her an ideal target for scam calls—or so the scammers think. When fraudsters call to extract sensitive information, Daisy keeps them on the line with lengthy, meandering conversations about her fictional life. She talks about her love for knitting, her imaginary grandson, or a mysterious casserole recipe. All the while, she distracts scammers from reaching their actual victims.

The concept is brilliant in its simplicity. Scammers rely on efficiency, moving quickly from one call to the next to maximize their “profits.” By engaging them in long, meaningless conversations, Daisy disrupts their workflow and reduces the number of potential victims they can exploit. In some cases, the AI has kept scammers on the phone for over 40 minutes.

Behind the Curtain: How Daisy Works

The development of Daisy required significant advancements in artificial intelligence and natural language processing. The system works in real-time: when a scammer speaks, their words are transcribed into text. Daisy’s AI brain analyzes the text, determines an appropriate response, and converts it back into speech—complete with the warm tones and pauses typical of an elderly person.

Daisy’s “personality” was meticulously crafted. Engineers layered a conversational style that is both engaging and plausible, ensuring the persona could handle unexpected or complex scenarios. For instance, when a scammer presses for bank account details, Daisy might cheerfully invent a fictitious account number or begin an unrelated anecdote about her cat. The result is a seamless interaction that feels entirely human, even to seasoned fraudsters.

A Dual Purpose: Protection and Awareness

While Daisy’s primary goal is to waste scammers’ time, her impact extends far beyond the phone line. The project is part of a broader initiative to raise public awareness about the growing threat of phone scams. With millions falling victim to fraud every year, Daisy serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance and innovation in protecting personal information.

O2’s initiative also sheds light on the ethical use of artificial intelligence. Unlike controversial applications of AI in surveillance or misinformation, Daisy exemplifies how technology can be harnessed for social good. By turning the tables on scammers, O2 is not only protecting its customers but also demonstrating the potential of AI to tackle real-world problems.

Lessons for Entrepreneurs and Innovators

For entrepreneurs and professionals, Daisy offers a masterclass in creative problem-solving. The project exemplifies how unconventional thinking—paired with cutting-edge technology—can address longstanding issues. It also highlights the importance of collaboration, as Daisy’s creation involved experts in AI, cybersecurity, and consumer behavior.

This innovation raises a critical question for startups and tech leaders: how can AI be used not just for profit, but for public benefit? Daisy proves that technology doesn’t have to be disruptive in the negative sense; it can also protect and empower.

The Future of AI in Cybersecurity

Daisy’s success points to a future where AI plays a central role in fraud prevention. As cyber threats grow increasingly sophisticated, tools like Daisy could become a standard line of defense. From detecting phishing emails to identifying fraudulent transactions, the potential applications of AI in cybersecurity are vast.

However, this also underscores the need for ongoing research and investment. Scammers are unlikely to give up, and their tactics will evolve. To stay ahead, companies must continuously improve AI systems like Daisy, ensuring they remain effective against new forms of fraud.

A Conversation Worth Having

At its core, Daisy is more than just a clever piece of technology; she’s a symbol of resilience in the face of cybercrime. Her creation is a testament to what’s possible when innovation is driven by a genuine desire to help others. For anyone who has ever received a fraudulent call—or worried about a vulnerable loved one being targeted—Daisy offers a glimmer of hope.

As cybercriminals refine their methods, projects like Daisy remind us that technology can fight back just as effectively. And sometimes, the most powerful weapon isn’t brute force—it’s the gentle voice of a granny who’s just a little too curious about her “bank account.”

For a closer look at Daisy in action, check out this video:

AI Scambaiters: O2 Creates AI Granny to Waste Scammers’ Time.

It’s not just entertaining—it’s a glimpse into the future of how we can use AI to outsmart those who seek to exploit us.