How to limit SMS spam
SMS spam is already a fairly big problem in South Africa, and it is likely to increase unless the problem is actively addressed. While SMS spam is not as widespread as email spam, it can cause significant irritation to mobile phone users who typically have to open any SMS before being able to delete it.
The SMS spam battle is quite complicated because of various factors, including the fact that it is not easy to develop spam filtering software for lower end handsets which are unable to run complicated programs. It is also not trivial to block certain spam SMS senders.
Many telecoms experts believe that SMS spam will pose an increasing challenge to both cellular operators and mobile operating system developers in future. There are however a few things which can currently be done to limit SMS spam in South Africa.
According to Dr. Pieter Streicher, MD of BulkSMS.com and a WASPA board member, the first step in tackling SMS spam is for networks to ensure that there are no loopholes which would allow SMS messages to be sent for free, or would allow the spoofing of mobile numbers.
“Currently there are many networks that do not charge each other interconnect fees, creating loopholes for the sending of messages for free. In addition, fraudsters with SS7 access at foreign networks, could spoof mobile numbers and fake other details (pretending that a mobile number is roaming), and thereby send millions of SMS messages for free,” said Streicher.
“These attacks often involve reverse fee fraud scams or phishing attacks. The potential losses for all parties involved are huge and could result in huge interconnect charges for the home network, the loss of roaming agreements, unpaid phone bills and high call centre loads.”
According to Streicher local operators are making good progress in closing these loopholes. “The cost associated with SMS is one of the main factors ensuring that SMS spam levels are orders of magnitude below those of email spam levels.”
Streicher further suggests good regulations and consistent enforcement of these regulations to sniff out and punish rogue wireless access service poroviders. “Currently WASPA, the local industry body plays an important role in this regard.”
Streicher also urges consumers to be more pro-active and lay complaints with WASPA should the WASPA code be transgressed. Consumers can lodge a complaint online at http://www.waspa.org.za/code/complaint.shtml
SMS Spam fight – give your views
Loading ...