Proposed changes to the SMS Sender ID Register

ACCAN recently submitted to the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA)’s proposed changes to the SMS sender ID register consultation. The SMS sender ID register (the Register) aims to disrupt impersonation scams where a scammer sends an SMS/MMS with a sender ID (message header) that imitates a well-known brand. 

ACCAN supports the introduction of the SMS sender ID register and recommends the ACMA: 

1. Implement appropriate mechanisms to enable regulatory oversight of entities registering SMS sender IDs (SSIDs) on behalf of other entities.  

2. Develop robust processes for approving entities to become certified telcos and ensure approval is restricted to domestic entities. 

3. Prohibit international partners from verifying the legitimacy of entities and conducting the assessments at 13(2)(a)(i)-(iv) of the draft Telecommunications (SMS Sender ID Register) Industry Standard 2025. 

4. Apply consistent requirements for the registration of both ABN and non-ABN entities to ensure equitable access to the Register. 

5. Allocate SSIDs on first-come first-served basis and set a reasonable limit of how many SSIDs an entity can register. 

6. Establish circumstances in which the ACMA can revoke rights of use to a SSID and an entity’s approval to participate in the Register. 

7. Use over stamping as a transitional arrangement only and proceed to block all unregistered SSID messages after a period of six months. 

8. Publish clear guidance on the implementation of the Register for entities and consumers.