Priya PatelTLDR: Hong Kong banks are implementing an SMS sender registration scheme to protect customers from falling victim to scam texts. This scheme requires participating banks to use registered SMS sender IDs with the prefix “#” when sending messages to mobile subscribers. Texts with sender IDs containing “#” that are not sent by registered senders will be screened out by telecommunications companies.
The scheme, launched in December with the support of regulators and the police, now includes 28 retail and virtual banks, including Ant Bank, DBS, and Standard Chartered. The Hong Kong Association of Banks welcomes the initiative, stating that it will help combat malicious spoof messages and strengthen client protection against fraudulent SMS messages.
By using registered sender IDs, participating banks aim to enhance customer education and employ technological advancements to combat evolving scam tactics.
Key Points:
- Hong Kong banks are implementing an SMS sender registration scheme to protect customers from falling victim to scam texts.
- Participating banks will use registered SMS sender IDs with the prefix “#” to send messages to mobile subscribers.
- Texts with sender IDs containing “#” that are not sent by registered senders will be screened out by telecommunications companies.
- The initiative is supported by regulators, the police, and 28 retail and virtual banks in Hong Kong.
- The scheme aims to combat fraudulent SMS messages and enhance customer protection against malicious spoof messages.
