Who is behind each SMS? They create a new tool to avoid messaging scams
The CNMC approves the creation of an alias register that allows verifying who the senders really are
BarcelonaBeing able to verify the names or brands behind the messages we receive on our mobiles in order to avoid scams. The National Commission of Markets and Competition (CNMC) has approved the regulation of an alias registry that will allow verification that the senders in SMS, MMS or RCS messages sent to Spanish numbers are really who they claim to be. As the public entity has explained, the objective of the measure is to restore user confidence in electronic communications through messages. It will also serve to strengthen the fight against fraud attempts through identity theft, an increasingly frequent practice. From June 7, messages from all those who falsify their identity will begin to be blocked.
The new circular establishes that only aliases previously registered in the registry may be used as senders and will be linked solely to their legitimate owner. This will combat all those messages that, for example, impersonate electricity, telephone or banking companies. Currently, scammers use the names of large companies to appear legitimate. With the registry in hand, operators will have to block messages that use unregistered or unofficial identifiers. From now on, therefore, if a company wants to send messages using its brand name as the sender, it will have to register its alias with the CNMC. If a third party attempts to use this same name without authorization, the message will be blocked and will not arrive.
How the registry will work
The alias register –managed by the CNMC– will collect all alphanumeric identifiers (letters, numbers and combined letters or other characters) that can be used as sender in messages sent to Spanish numbers. Companies and public administrations will be able to register their identifiers by proving that the name actually has a link with their brand, trade name, company name or domain.
Likewise, the circular defines the obligations of the different agents involved in sending messages –messaging service providers at origin, transit or termination– and their responsibilities. Messaging providers will have to block messages whenever unregistered aliases are used, they come from unregistered providers, they are sent without authorization from the owner or they correspond to foreign companies not registered in Spain.