Operator O2 is launching a new phase of its educational campaign focused on cybersecurity. The main face of the project remains the fictional character of Grandma Alenka, created using artificial intelligence, who this time is tasked with educating the public about the specific mechanisms of fraudulent calls (vishing). The campaign responds to the fact that attacks are increasingly sophisticated and often target people in their productive years who mistakenly believe they are immune to such tricks.
Security experts warn that scammers use elaborate manuals and pressure tactics.
"They impersonate bankers, police officers, couriers, or technical support. They speak calmly, professionally, and often have basic personal information about the victim,"
explains Radek Šichtanc, O2's Security Director. According to current statistics, the operator has blocked almost 1 million fraudulent calls since the beginning of this year thanks to antispoofing technology, where attackers tried to mask a foreign call as a Czech mobile number.
The expanded campaign on social media will present seven of the most common fraudulent scenarios. AI Grandma Alenka, in her role as a mentor, explains the principles of "fake police officer" or "fake banker" attacks. Actor Jiří Langmajer will also participate in the education, highlighting errors in digital hygiene in a series of videos, such as using weak passwords or carelessness when opening suspicious emails and links.
The campaign builds on the success of last year's edition.
"Public awareness of Grandma Alenka's character reached almost 45%,"
states David Daneš, O2's Marketing Director, adding that during the summer, Alenka will also focus on protecting sensitive personal data. The second wave, planned for May, will then focus on proper password settings and overall "tidying up" in the digital environment.
As part of prevention, the operator emphasizes five basic rules of protection: do not click on suspicious links, do not share passwords or PINs with anyone, verify the caller's identity with official institutions, do not allow remote access to your device, and do not succum to time pressure. Detailed information on individual threats is available on the company's specialized website.