Kaspersky launches caller identification app in South Africa to flag spam and scam calls

Kaspersky Who Calls uses machine learning and crowdsourced reports to assess call reputation, and is available in free and paid versions for iOS and Android

Kaspersky, the Moscow-headquartered cybersecurity company that develops antivirus software, threat detection tools and consumer security products across more than 200 countries, has introduced its Kaspersky Who Calls application in South Africa. The app identifies incoming calls from unknown numbers by displaying available information about the caller, including business name, category and reputation data drawn from community feedback.

The product addresses a measurable problem. According to Kaspersky's own data, nearly one-third of unknown calls globally are identified as spam or fraud. The app works by combining machine learning with aggregated, anonymised reports submitted by users who flag suspicious numbers. That feedback feeds a continuously updated database that other users can reference. The application does not require phone number registration or the submission of personal information to function.

On the technical side, the app goes beyond identifying who is calling. Android users can block calls by category, block numbers from outside their country and receive warnings about SMS phishing attempts. Both iOS and Android users can manually look up any number to check its reputation, category and associated business name. Outgoing call protection is also included, alerting users before they dial numbers that have been flagged by the community database.

Kaspersky Who Calls is available as a free version on both platforms, with caller identification and community reputation data included at no cost. Paid annual subscriptions on iOS and Android add call management features and remove advertising. iOS users also have access to a monthly subscription option and a seven-day trial through App Store billing.

"With the launch of Kaspersky Who Calls, we are giving our customers more than basic call protection – we are giving them control over their daily communication," commented Chris Norton, General Manager for Sub-Saharan Africa at Kaspersky. "Users want to protect their time, reduce stress and feel confident when answering or making a call. Kaspersky Who Calls is designed as a practical and user-friendly solution that helps them stay securely connected without unnecessary interruptions."