Microsoft Joins Global Anti-Scam Alliance to Combat Cybercrime

Scams have become an increasingly prevalent threat in the digital age, impacting millions globally. According to the Global Anti-Scam Alliance (GASA), nearly 50% of consumers encountered at least one scam attempt each week in 2024. Microsoft, recognizing the urgency of addressing this growing issue, has pledged to be at the forefront of fighting scams in all their forms. This commitment is exemplified through various initiatives, including the Secure Future Initiative (SFI) launched in November 2023, and the company’s new partnership with GASA.

In February 2024, Microsoft outlined a six-pillar strategy to combat the dangers of abusive AI-generated content. This framework includes:

1. Strong safety architecture

2. Durable media provenance and watermarking

3. Safeguarding services from abusive content and conduct

4. Robust collaboration across industry, governments, and civil society

5. Modernized legislation to protect people from technological abuse

6. Enhanced public awareness and education

Microsoft believes that addressing fraud and cybercrime requires proactive, industry-wide efforts. In line with this, the company published a whitepaper in July 2024, urging U.S. policymakers to consider AI-generated fraud in new legislative measures. This commitment has now led to Microsoft’s official inclusion as a Foundation Member of GASA, a global organization focused on uniting authorities, tech leaders, and industry platforms to protect consumers from scams. GASA’s mission is to share knowledge, define strategies, and coordinate actions to safeguard consumers. In 2024 alone, cybercriminals cost the global economy over $1.03 trillion.

Strengthening Fraud Prevention Through the Global Signal Exchange

In addition to joining GASA, Microsoft is now part of the Global Signal Exchange (GSE), a groundbreaking initiative designed to fight online fraud in real-time. The GSE, launched in collaboration with GASA and operated by Oxford Information Labs (OXIL), serves as a global clearinghouse for scam and fraud signals. The platform monitors over 191 million threat signals in real-time, enabling member organizations to collaborate in tackling online scams.

Emily Taylor, Founder of the GSE, emphasized the importance of collective efforts in combating scams. “Fighting scams is a collaborative effort,” she said. “By sharing real-time data, we aim to expose malicious activities faster and make them less profitable for criminals.”

With Microsoft’s involvement, the GSE will continue to expand its coverage of threats and cybercriminal activities. The platform focuses on identifying malicious URLs, phishing attacks, and suspect IP addresses, with the goal of preventing harm to consumers and reducing the effectiveness of cybercrime.

Looking Forward

As part of its ongoing commitment to security, Microsoft is working tirelessly to protect users from the evolving threats of cybercrime. The company’s collaboration with GASA and the GSE is just the beginning of a broader effort to enhance global security, raise awareness, and eliminate digital threats. Together with other leading organizations, Microsoft is dedicated to shining a light on cybercrime and ensuring a safer digital environment for all.