Building Hyper-Localized AI Models for Fraud Prevention

Saif reveals why Corgi Labs builds hyper-localized machine learning models down to specific cities (like Tokyo vs. Osaka), how he uses a "multi-armed bandit" approach to early-stage GTM, and what the future holds for AI-driven security and tech debt.
Published:

In this episode, Angelique Strauss sits down with Saif Farooqui, CEO and Founder of Corgi Labs (YC W23) and former Data Scientist at Stripe, Google, and Meta. 

Saif breaks down why traditional “one-size-fits-all” fraud prevention models are failing and how hyper-localized machine learning is reshaping payments security.

Key Takeaways

  • Localized Fraud Prevention: Why global meta models fail and how Corgi Labs trains hyper-localized models down to individual cities (e.g., Tokyo vs. Osaka).
  • Precision vs. Recall: How to stop high-risk fraud without hurting conversion rates for legitimate buyers.
  • The “GTM Engineer” Mindset: Saif’s 70/30 multi-armed bandit strategy for balancing product exploitation with target market exploration.
  • Frictionless Sales: De-risking client integration through 30-day risk-free parallel trials using clean schemas like Stripe.
  • AI’s Double-Edged Sword in Engineering: How AI amplifies senior engineers while accelerating technical debt for junior devs.
  • Open-Source vs. Proprietary APIs: Why small, specialized open-source models keep unit economics sustainable as AI features scale.
  • Founder Health & Hype: Managing AI tool FOMO and why 7–8 hours of daily sleep is vital for long-term execution.

Founder/s: Saif Farooqui

Speakers

Saif Farooqui

Saif Farooqui

CEO/Founder, Corgi Labs

Saif Farooqui is the CEO and Founder of Corgi Labs (YC W23). A former Lead Data Scientist at Stripe with prior experience at Google and Meta, Saif builds hyper-localized, machine-learning solutions to help businesses maximize payment acceptance and combat complex global fraud.

Angelique Strauss

Angelique Strauss

CEO/Founder, AScaleX

Angelique Strauss is the CEO of AScaleX, where she works with companies to improve operational efficiency, accelerate revenue growth, and build strategic partnerships that support long-term scale. With more than ten years of experience leading international teams, she has helped organizations unlock significant business expansion and drive measurable growth.

  • 10+ years of experience across B2B technology, fintech, edtech, security & compliance, enterprise technology, and professional sports.
  • Venture growth and fundraising leader with contributions to over $50M in combined funding across fintech and edtech companies.
  • Generated over $2M in client pipeline from a single integrated campaign.
  • Contributed to more than 60% of new business generation in under a year through strategic GTM execution.
  • Known for combining operator-level execution with strategic leadership to drive scalable growth.
  • Forbes Business Council member and contributor