October 6, Manama (BNA): The “Guidelines for Reducing Fraudulent SMS” were created in close coordination with the Kingdom’s mobile network operators (MNOs) and released by the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA).
TRA Bahrain and mobile operators launch guidelines to combat fraudulent SMS
This effort comes after the TRA and the operators established a strategic working group to jointly address important online safety concerns affecting mobile users. This collaborative investigation revealed that fraudulent SMS, which are utilized in consumer-targeting schemes, represent a serious and expanding risk to Bahraini users.
In order to better protect consumers from frauds, the new rules give operators precise procedures and technical specifications for identifying, blocking, and mitigating fraudulent SMS traffic. They also contain clauses pertaining to reporting procedures, user education, and adherence to Bahrain’s data protection and regulatory requirements.
“This cooperative effort with the mobile operators reflects our shared commitment to protecting consumers in Bahrain,” stated Shaikh Abdulla Bin Humood Al Khalifa, Director of Consumer and Communications at TRA, in reference to the project. Together, we are making it possible for the general people to use telecom services with increased security and confidence. These rules will be essential in protecting people from phony SMS messages and increasing awareness of online safety.
“The release of these guidelines shows what can be accomplished when regulators and industry partners collaborate,” stated Philip Marnick, General Director of TRA. We are working together to keep Bahrainis safe from fraud and to make sure their interests are always protected. This is a critical step in upholding our obligations to customers and bolstering confidence in our telecom networks.”
The TRA underlined that this initiative is being carried out for the benefit of Bahrain’s citizens, demonstrating a united front to address actual problems that mobile users face and reaffirming the Kingdom’s leadership in digital trust and consumer protection.
