View Full Version : Opera Telecom: Scam SMS' doing the rounds - ems.cx & bzm.tv (Sprint Media / Oxygen8)
PsyWulf
01-11-2011, 08:45 PM
Basically SMS rings as follows:
You have been sent a picture. Click to open: http://ems.cx/w/?m=2782xxxxxxx Upon visiting this site you are presented with a new link to fetch the content from Mobmatic (A Wasp VAS site)
Upon clicking the button to redeem/retrieve the message you are subbed for a R7 per day service
What you don't see on your cell screen is the bottom of this page
Mobmatic is a subscription service for mobile content at rand seven per day. Mobmatic has requested that your mobile number be made available. Clicking on 'next' you're declaring to be 18+ and are accepting both the terms and conditions and to receive free promotional SMS relating to this and other services operated by Sprint Media S.L. To opt-out from promotions, sms STOP to 31923 or contact Support@mobmatic.com or call 0213002334. Privacy Policy.
http://mybroadband.co.za/photos/data/500/mob.jpg
A similar sms' has been discussed here (http://sagren.blogspot.com/2011/02/vodacom-talking-points-scam.html)
EMS.cx is a URL shortening service for a company known as Sprint Media which seems to feed on the stupidity of users by rewarding affiliates based upon clicks onto the subscription links
Just keep your eyes out and don't click anything you see :)
Madman88
01-11-2011, 08:58 PM
I got his too. Surely you should be able to take action against Mobmatic?
They should close these stupid ringtone and picture wasps.
renierp
01-11-2011, 09:11 PM
I got this today too!
Also googled a bit, also noticed the dodgy URL shortener. it seems the previous time around, the scam was to claim some loyalty points.
Mine said something like 'you were sent a picture. Click on the link to view' and some gibberish hinting at a R7 a day service.
ToxicBunny
11-11-2011, 12:29 PM
I got a new variation on this, saying that my account has 500 credit or something of that nature...
I will be complaining to WASP about these guys, as well as to vodacom...
It is very clearly a scam, that is attempting to get ppl to subscribe to somethign for R7 a day.
SoTrue
11-11-2011, 01:37 PM
I got a new variation on this, saying that my account has 500 credit or something of that nature...
I will be complaining to WASP about these guys, as well as to vodacom...
It is very clearly a scam, that is attempting to get ppl to subscribe to somethign for R7 a day.
I also got that one.....
The_Librarian
11-11-2011, 02:04 PM
They will never stop.
Bah.
koeksGHT
11-11-2011, 02:24 PM
Got this too..
I rate there should be a way that you can block sms's from numbers on vodacom.
darste
12-11-2011, 04:59 PM
Likewise. There's a guy who went through the whole process of trying to sort it out. Read the story here (http://http://sagren.blogspot.com/2011/02/vodacom-talking-points-scam.html) and how he resolved it here. (http://sagren.blogspot.com/2011/02/vodacom-talking-points-scam-resolution.html)
Sinbad
12-11-2011, 07:32 PM
We got it too. Have complained to Vodacom who said they have received lots of complaints but they don't expect to be able to do anything about it. I expect that the money these WASPs pay is far more important to them than us poor customers.
Just to check - clicking on the link in the SMS won't subscribe you, will it? Just clicking the "NEXT" link on the next web page?
Also, I have a vodacom contact number for Orion Telecoms who are the crowd behind Mobmatic.
Shall I subscribe them to their own service?! :D Since they have no way of verifying an IP address is linked to a cell number that's submitted .... ... *evil grin*
zizo911
12-11-2011, 08:39 PM
Got this sms also.
evilstebunny
13-11-2011, 12:26 PM
Also, I have a vodacom contact number for Orion Telecoms who are the crowd behind Mobmatic.
Shall I subscribe them to their own service?! :D Since they have no way of verifying an IP address is linked to a cell number that's submitted .... ... *evil grin*
+10000000
Just got this bullsh*t sms too!
"1 new message on your account:'Your account 082xxxxxx has 500 cr...' - Click to read full message http://ems.cx/w/?m=2782xxxxxxx /r7/day-sub/unsub:sms-stop/"
mfumbesi
16-11-2011, 08:23 AM
I also received this sms. I didn't follow the link, but somehow I lost R15 worth of airtime. I couldn't explain it and I was blaming my wife for it. I've followed his suggestion and did the DMA OP-OUT thing.
Khanya
16-02-2012, 12:14 PM
Your yearly bonus has been applied to 083288xxxx. Click to accept.
I have a data contract, so don't work with airtime sorry.
mmmig
16-02-2012, 12:24 PM
is there a way to block all links on sms's
I just received this very message on my MTN prepaid number (ported from Vodacom). I didn't follow the link though.
Someone should really take these people to court for fraud.
roguemat
28-05-2012, 05:03 PM
Wait...so with just someone's phone number you can sign them up to these scammy Rx/day services?
If so, that is REALLY skrewed up.
morkhans
08-06-2012, 12:26 PM
Also got one today.
Viper25
14-06-2012, 01:43 PM
Got one yesterday. So annoying.
Confirmed through my WASPA complaint that ems.cx is indeed Opera Telecom.
We forwarded this request to the following WASPA member(s):
- Opera Telecom t/a Opera Interactive
According to our records, all of these WASPA members have confirmed that they have either unsubscribed your number from any of the services they run, or they have confirmed that you were not subscribed to any of their services. Based on this, we think that your request has therefore been resolved.
morkhans
18-06-2012, 09:05 AM
Confirmed through my WASPA complaint that ems.cx is indeed Opera Telecom.
Fantastic thanks. WASPA complaint lodged!
Opera Telecom still up to their old tricks. Just received the following spam sms:
You have 1 New Offer on account 073xxxxxxx which expires in 24 hours. Click to open offer http://ems.cx/w/?m=2773xxxxxxx /optout:sms-stop-31908/R7/day
So again I have to pay out of my own pocket to opt out of their junk. Fxxx you Opera Telecom. I will log yet another WASPA complaint.
EDIT: When I open the link on my pc it routes to Mobmatic. But they're in cahoots with Opera Telecom.
So I lodged a complaint again with WASPA. These guys are just as toothless as ICASA. They just respond by saying they will have me unsubscribed. That's not good enough. These con-artists must be stopped.
Tracey
11-07-2012, 01:52 PM
Just received this (variation on a theme above):
You have received a video
Click to open http://ems.cx/w/?m=[my number here] Received today at 09.12.
(16Plus only) /4optout? stop.to.31908/r7/day/
Have not clicked the link but, after I had some difficulty with NashuaMobile and an IBS Subs service that they allege I subscribed to, I covered my butt (I think) by sending this to their accounts:
Hi xx
I sorted out the spam IBS subs charging issue with NM (by voicing my frustration on HelloPeter.com). In the end it didn't seem a problem for NM to fix it at all!
However, I have JUST received the following from 0839200240908 and I would like to put it on record that I have not signed up for this - yet again it appears that my number has been signed up for the service without my permission. If the R7/day finds its way on to my account (I am certainly not interacting with this provider at all to 'opt out' as I certainly did not opt-in, I expect NM to reverse all charges.
------
I checked out http://sagren.blogspot.com/2011/02/vodacom-talking-points-scam-resolution.html as recommended in an earlier post (thanks!). And have opted out on the DMA Don't Contact Me database (now at https://www.nationaloptout.co.za/).
Mk786
15-11-2012, 04:17 PM
Just got a similar message! I don't even use my phone to browse the web! Some ruling should be passed o prevent fraudulent companies from charging our account without signed documentation or something! damn Idjits!
morkhans
20-12-2012, 12:14 PM
And they are back. This time with a new url. Sender number: +27 839200240923
You have received a video preview. Click to open http://bzm.tv/w/?m=27XXXXXX ...(16 Only) 31923 subscription service R7/day Opt Out dial 0110621412
cbrunsdonza
20-12-2012, 12:30 PM
And they are back. This time with a new url. Sender number: +27 839200240923
Report to WASPA
PsyWulf
06-02-2013, 09:51 AM
And they are back. This time with a new url. Sender number: +27 839200240923
Just got the same message from 0840043958
3n1gma
13-02-2013, 10:22 AM
I have just received a message now from 084 004 3958 (the number displayed), saying "you have received a video preview. Click to open http://bzm.tv/w/?m=[my number here] ... (16 only) 43958 subscription service R7/day. Opt Out dial 0110621412"
Tried to call and the number is engaged.
Do I have to opt out or will it only register me if I view the link (which I don't intend to)?
Oh and excuse my ignorance but what is WASPA?
PsyWulf
13-02-2013, 10:23 AM
Whatever you do do not click the link,it takes you to the subscribe page
Copy the link to a desktop and use a different internet connection if you want to see what it is. If you click on the link with your phone your MSISDN will be sent to them.
Opera mini may also block passthrough of your MSISDN.
morkhans
15-02-2013, 05:13 PM
So I lodged a follow-up complain with WASPA regarding Opera Telecom. The main issue was that they had processed an unsubscribe for me in the past, which clearly wasn't adhered too, but they seem to be struggling to understand this?
Anyway what has come out of it though is that the company behind the WASP is Sprint Media. They are Opera Telecom's customer. So you can safely add them to your spammer hate list. Oxygen 8 also seem to have some relation to Opera Telecom, not quite sure what yet.
*Thread title updated for googling goodness.
cbrunsdonza
15-02-2013, 07:32 PM
Copy the link to a desktop and use a different internet connection if you want to see what it is. If you click on the link with your phone your MSISDN will be sent to them.
Opera mini may also block passthrough of your MSISDN.
MSISDN forwarding is no longer working on our networks. Clicking the link in another browser would just activate the subscription.
cbrunsdonza
15-02-2013, 07:33 PM
So I lodged a follow-up complain with WASPA regarding Opera Telecom. The main issue was that they had processed an unsubscribe for me in the past, which clearly wasn't adhered too, but they seem to be struggling to understand this?
Anyway what has come out of it though is that the company behind the WASP is Sprint Media. They are Opera Telecom's customer. So you can safely add them to your spammer hate list. Oxygen 8 also seem to have some relation to Opera Telecom, not quite sure what yet.
*Thread title updated for googling goodness.
Opera = Oxygen 8 = Sprint Media
We where discussing the hideous evolution of this WASP during a meeting last week. They really do give our industry a rotten name
morkhans
15-02-2013, 08:39 PM
Thanks for the insider info ;)
Sprint Media is also behind the fraud on my line. (http://mybroadband.co.za/vb/showthread.php/498858-Cell-C-s-indifferent-attitude-to-content-charge-fraud)
I will not rest until all the networks, like Vodacom, implements double opt-in for WASP services.
iMcJaz
18-02-2013, 12:26 PM
How do the networks allow things like this to go by unnoticed, I have no idea.
They should have a option on your network subscription stating that: "Permission of a 3rd party to deduct credits from your call account must be verified with signed, written statement from the account holder."
Currently networks are allowing daylight robbery.
Anyway what has come out of it though is that the company behind the WASP is Sprint Media.
Sprint Media "is a company that responds" on hellopeter (http://hellopeter.com/search-reports?keyword=Sprintmedia+SL&keywordint=817873)
morkhans
19-02-2013, 10:20 PM
It's just a generic cut n paste "we are all innocent how can you not love our amazing product" reply.
cbrunsdonza
20-02-2013, 09:04 AM
It's just a generic cut n paste "we are all innocent how can you not love our amazing product" reply.
Yup, and they have to respond to lesson the WASPA sting when ever they get fined.
morkhans
21-02-2013, 06:31 PM
Looks like WASPA finally understand my complaint. Been promised 5-7 working days for a response.
From what I can gather from past complaints (http://www.waspa.org.za/code/complaints.php), if indeed they have spammed you after your unsubscribe request, if upheld, they will be fined a hefty sum.
morkhans
21-02-2013, 07:50 PM
I bloody well hope so!
morkhans
27-02-2013, 09:00 AM
Just got an update from WASPA. Looks like things are finally moving forward.
Since your unsubscribe request was not resolved using the informal
process, it has now been escalated to a formal complaint and will
now be handled using the formal complaint procedure in section 14.3 of
the WASPA Code of Conduct. Accordingly:
- The WASPA member against whom this complaint has been lodged will
be informed of the complaint, and given five working days to
respond.
- After five working days, notwithstanding any response from the
WASPA member concerned, the complaint will be assigned to an
adjudicator for review, and if upheld, determination of
appropriate sanctions.
- Once the adjudicator has determined whether there has been a
breach of the Code, and any sanctions, you will be provided with
a copy of the adjudicator's report.
morkhans
20-03-2013, 10:21 AM
So here is the feedback from Oxygen8 Compliance officer which WASPA says resolves things in their view:
Dear WASPA Secretariat,
Please refer to the underneath details of the unsub request.
Having seen this, it is evident what happened:
1. The complainant received a marketing message for insurance. Somehow this unsub request was erroneously logged with Oxygen8. Upon handling the Complaint, our Call Centre noted that the message in question was not sent by us and thus no further action was taken.
2. The complainant then received a marketing message from Sprint Media, and interpreted the receipt thereof as an indication that we had never unsub’ed him subsequent to request 1 above. Whilst the two messages are in fact completely unrelated.
Nonetheless, we wish to confirm that the MSISDN has been blacklisted from the system, and no further interaction with the MSISDN will be possible.
As stated before, we do not take allegations of spamming lightly, and therefore we wish to thank WASPA and the complainant for affording us the opportunity to investigate this issue properly.
We further wish to apologise for any confusion or inconvenience caused to the complainant, and I urge him to contact me should there be any further queries.
Seeing as the people who respond to all these queries is Oxygen8, I don't see how point 1 holds any water?
Somehow this unsub request was erroneously logged with Oxygen8.
I think you should request the query not be closed and that they elaborate on who and how the unsubscribe request was "erroneously" logged.
cbrunsdonza
20-03-2013, 02:07 PM
So here is the feedback from Oxygen8 Compliance officer which WASPA says resolves things in their view:
Seeing as the people who respond to all these queries is Oxygen8, I don't see how point 1 holds any water?
While your individual complaint might not seem to have done much, WASPA do take the number and seriousness of complaints when they start dealing with repeat offenders. Its the collective effort that makes the difference. Your complaint is one complaint closer to them getting nailed like they should
morkhans
20-03-2013, 02:20 PM
I have gone back to WASPA with some more questions. Will see what they say.
morkhans
13-05-2013, 08:45 AM
So final outcome with my complaint seems that it has fizzled out with WASPA essentially believing [-]Opera[/-]Oxygen8 who claim it was human error.
A useful titbit I will throw in here from the scummy WASP themselves:
For clarification purposes: Oxygen8 used to be called “Opera” but undergone a name change several years ago. So any reference to either/or is essentially the same thing.
So final outcome with my complaint seems that it has fizzled out with WASPA essentially believing [-]Opera[/-]Oxygen8 who claim it was human error.
So they get off without sanctions this way? WASPA is toothless.
morkhans
13-05-2013, 12:12 PM
So they get off without sanctions this way? WASPA is toothless.
So it would seem.
As I'm not out of pocket and WASPA doesn't seem interested any more I'm leaving it at that. At least it's documented here and WASPA have my complaint on record. So they'll have to pull a new excuse for the next person they spam.