New SMS Rules Boost Security

The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has announced a new regulation requiring businesses and organizations to register their branded identifiers used in SMS messages with their telecommunications provider. This measure aims to combat impersonation scams, which have caused significant financial and psychological harm to victims.

ACMA Chair Nerida O’Loughlin explained that the SMS Sender ID Register, set to be implemented by mid-next year, will allow the public to verify the legitimacy of the sender when receiving text messages. Unregistered sender IDs will be grouped under an ‘Unverified’ message thread, signaling potential scams.

The upcoming rules mandate all businesses and organizations using sender IDs to register these identifiers and justify their use. This registration process is crucial as it ensures that customers can trust the authenticity of the messages they receive. O’Loughlin emphasized the urgency of compliance, with a deadline set for July 2026, and encouraged entities to initiate discussions with their telecom providers soon to avoid penalties and ensure seamless adaptation to the new system.

Starting from October 15, 2025, telecom and electronic message service providers (EMSPs) interested in participating in the SMS Sender ID Register must apply to the ACMA. Following this, a registration window from November 30, 2025, to June 30, 2026, will be open for businesses and organizations to secure their sender IDs. Post July 1, 2026, only registered sender IDs will be operational, with unregistered ones labeled as ‘Unverified’.

These changes follow extensive public consultations and directives from the Minister for Communications, Hon Anika Wells MP. More information about the SMS Sender ID Register and related FAQs can be accessed on the ACMA’s official website.