Introduction: Imagine a world where every incoming message is safe, and every scam is instantly recognized. Welcome to SMSshield, the app that not only simplifies communication but makes it secure. In line with the hackathon's theme, "Connect the Unconnected," we aim to reduce security barriers for seniors and children, protecting them from common scams.
Innovation: SMSshield combines spam filtering with education. As social engineering attacks become more prevalent and sophisticated, this combination is vital. The app analyzes messages directly on the device, ensuring your data remains private. Links are displayed as plain text, preventing accidental clicks to scam websites.
Impact: SMSshield effectively addresses the problem of SMS scams. It enables users to communicate safely, ensuring they don't have to worry about their loved ones falling victim to fraud. With features like forwarding dangerous messages to emergency contacts, the app provides additional security for children and seniors.
Technical Details:
- Developed as an Android app in Kotlin.
- Uses Levenshtein distance to flag dangerous SMS.
- Integration of Python and ONNX for machine learning.
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Multi-Language Support:
- SMSshield will be available in multiple languages to reach a broader user base and lower barriers for non-English speakers.
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Machine Learning Instead of Levenshtein:
- Improve detection accuracy by using machine learning models instead of the Levenshtein distance.
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Community Reporting:
- Users can report suspicious messages to expand the database and improve detection.
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Emergency Contact Alerts:
- Forward dangerous messages to emergency contacts (e.g., children -> parents, seniors -> children).
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Full-Scale Messaging App:
- Integrate all messaging functions so users don't need to access other potentially dangerous apps.
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Minimalistic Design:
- Focus on the target audience (children and seniors) to ensure ease of use.
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On-Device Analysis:
- Messages are analyzed directly on the device, ensuring maximum data privacy.
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Potential Impact:
- Combining flagging and education can achieve nearly 100% success in preventing scams.
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Security Features:
- Links are displayed as text only, preventing accidental clicks to scam websites.
Summary: SMSshield perfectly embodies the theme "Connect the Unconnected" by reducing communication barriers for the most vulnerable groups and providing them a safe way to connect with their loved ones. With SMSshield, we take a significant step towards a safer digital world—one message at a time.
Thank you for your attention and support! Together, we can make the world a bit safer.