Double opt-in subscriptions welcome: WASPA

The Wireless Applications Service Providers’ Association (WASPA) welcomed MTN and Cell C’s implementation of a double opt-in system for all services offered by WASPs.

In a press statement issued on Wednesday, 11 December 2013, WASPA chairman Casper de Villiers was quoted as saying that the double opt-in process has always been part of the WASPA code of conduct.

However, until recently only Vodacom has supported the double opt-in requirement with its own independent system, De Villiers said.

“We’re delighted that MTN and Cell C have also put in place a double opt-in [system] to support the process. This puts the control around the use of WASP services firmly in the hands of the consumer,” he said.

According to WASPA, when a consumer requests to use a WASP service the request is sent through to the network operator, which then sends its own opt-in message to the consumer.

The consumer must then reply with an acceptance message to subscribe, after which the WASP offering the service is notified of the consumer’s confirmation, allowing the WASP to deliver the service as requested.

“Vodacom launched their double opt-in system 18 months ago and it has had a positive effect on the industry, allowing consumers to independently confirm their use of WASPs services,” De Villiers said.

“We believe the introduction of similar systems by the other major network operators will have the same positive impact on the industry as when Vodacom’s system went live,” he said.

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