Small businesses have once again been reminded to take necessary steps to ensure their text messages continue to reach customers when new anti-scam rules begin on July 1.
SMEs using a branded SMS sender ID – the name that appears at the top of a message – will need to register it under the new system.
From July, SMS/MMS sent from unregistered branded sender IDs will display the word ‘Unverified’ and will be grouped with messages from other unregistered senders, including potential scams.
The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has undertaken regular communications on the new Sender ID rules to make sure all SMEs acknowledge the changes.
“We are urging small businesses and community organisations to act now – work out if your organisation uses branded sender IDs and contact your telco or message provider if you want to continue using them from July 1,” said ACMA deputy chair Adam Suckling.
“Sender IDs are used so recipients can quickly identify who a message is from. They may be used by a wide range of family and small businesses such as dentists, GPs, solicitors, schools and childcare centres, and franchisees.
“Failing to register may mean consumers miss important messages or no longer trust them,” Suckling added.
Information, user guides and fact sheets about the SMS Sender ID Register are available on the ACMA website at SMS Sender ID Register | ACMA.
The organisation is also calling on telcos and messaging providers to prioritise supporting their customers to ensure sender IDs are registered before the deadline.
A list of participating telcos and messaging providers is also available on the ACMA website at Approved telcos and message providers for the SMS Sender ID Register.
