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Safaricom has taken a dramatic changes on international bulk sms by blocking any incoming SMS from any modified foreign alphanumeric code to its subscribers.
According to an article written by Gythan Munga of HumanIPO, Safaricom has decided that any bulk SMS purchased away from them will be blocked from terminating to its subscribers.
Why Block Incoming Messages From International Bulk SMS
“We have simply tightened our internal controls to ensure total compliance with inter-connect agreements for the exchange of voice and SMS traffic.” Nzioka Waita, Corporate Affairs Director, Safaricom told HumanIPO.
Impact of Safaricom Decision To Businesses
This will deal a huge blow to Bulk SMS businesses in Kenya because companies that uses foreign alphanumeric code won’t be able to communicate with its customers who are Safaricom subscribers.
What this means is that your business won’t be able to use International Bulk SMS service unless it complies with Safaricom new regulations where all the Sender ID has to be registered with Safaricom.
Prevention of Crime
There has been an increase in crime through Bulk SMS which likely influenced the decision that Safaricom made. It had becomes easier for anyone to send SMS using any Sender ID (e.g. Safaricom, M-pesa, Citizen TV, Nakumatt) of a particular brand so that they could solicit money from unaware users. Although it was a noble decision, the manner it was carried out was completely unethical since many businesses were not informed about the changes.
What Next?
The new condition will indirectly encourage businesses to start using Safaricom’s Premium Rate Service (PRS) which is more costly compared to International Bulk SMS. Most businesses will protest this move as it will increase the cost of communication through Bulk SMS to its customers.
Do you agree with Safaricom decision to block all incoming international Bulk SMS from its subscribers?
