User privacy app Cloaked adds AI-powered caller screening

Cloaked, a consumer identity protection app backed by Lux Capital, has unveiled a cutting-edge feature that utilizes artificial intelligence for caller screening and dark web monitoring. This new functionality, dubbed Call Guard, engages with unknown callers to assess their intentions, effectively filtering out spam and potentially fraudulent calls without placing the burden of decision-making on users. Similar to features introduced by tech giants like Google for their Pixel devices and upcoming plans by Apple for iOS 26, Cloaked's approach leverages advanced AI capabilities. The app also allows users to view real-time transcripts of calls, giving them the option to intervene if necessary. Cloaked has previously developed phone infrastructure that enables users to create new phone numbers, enhancing their privacy by masking personal information. CEO Arjun Bhatnagar emphasized the importance of understanding caller intent beyond simply identifying names. He noted a troubling trend of spam calls, particularly from automated agents, prompting Cloaked to train its AI to better identify and manage these interactions. Bhatnagar pointed out that while established companies have implemented similar features, user retention is often low due to a lack of personalization, presenting an opportunity for startups like Cloaked. In addition to managing incoming calls, Cloaked has plans to introduce an outbound calling feature that would utilize AI bots to assist during customer support interactions. Furthermore, the startup is developing an eSIM product to expand its offerings. Cloaked is also launching a dark web monitoring tool designed to protect personal data. This feature scans a variety of sources, including data brokers and compromised sites, for leaked information such as names, addresses, and social security numbers, alerting users when their data is found. The tool categorizes leaks into active and historical events, empowering users to take appropriate action. Additionally, Cloaked has implemented a data deletion program that facilitates user requests to have their information removed from various sites and data brokers, successfully eliminating over 170 million records online. Since the start of 2023, the startup has attracted more than 100,000 paying customers and continues to experience robust month-over-month growth. To date, Cloaked has secured $29 million in funding, with an additional $11 million raised from both existing and new investors, paving the way for future developments as they plan to formalize their funding round by year-end.