SMS Sender ID Registry - Fighting SMS Impersonation Scams

A common method used by scammers involves using SMS with fake sender IDs to imitate trusted brands such as ‘Linkt’ or ‘AusPost’, and deceive victims into giving over personal information or money. 

Scam SMS are often difficult to distinguish from legitimate SMS communications, meaning they pose an increased threat to both consumers and legitimate businesses and organisations. 

On 23 April 2023, the Minister for Communications announced plans to establish an SMS Sender ID Registry (the registry) as part of the government’s agenda to combat scams. The registry will protect consumers and brands by helping telecommunications service providers to identify and block SMS impersonation scams before they reach their target. 

On 15 December 2023, the ACMA launched a pilot of the registry, based on a voluntary model, with selected brands able to choose whether or not to register their sender IDs. SMS using these alphanumeric sender IDs will be blocked, unless they are sent by an authorized party. However, SMS using an unregistered sender ID will not be blocked, and can still be sent and received. 

The government is now considering whether to make registration voluntary or mandatory for alphanumeric sender IDs. 
We are seeking your feedback by 20/03/2024 on whether you support the introduction of a mandatory SMS Sender ID Registry or a voluntary registry.

Submissions can be provided by using the “Have Your Say” button below, or emailed to
SMSSenderID@infrastructure.gov.au. 

Alternatively, you can choose to complete a short 5 to 10 minute survey.

Submissions can be made by mail to:

SMS Sender ID Registry Consultation 
Communications Services and Consumer Division
Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts
GPO Box 594
Canberra ACT 2601

The discussion paper below provides relevant background and key questions to assist in making a submission or providing feedback.
 

Relevant documentation