One of the advantages of the ability to send short message service (SMS) texts using your cell phone is how easy it is to stay in touch with others. It is easy to be connected when one uses SMS messaging. Additionally, it is possible to receive updates from favorite retailers and businesses about certain items, sales and coupons. Many consumers also like the ability to check bank account balances and receive other critical emergency text alerts via SMS messaging. However, as with all technology, there are concerns. SMS security is a bit of an issue.
SMS Security Issues
SMS security can be compromised. Because of databases that are sometimes shared, and because information on cell phone numbers has to be stored somewhere, there is the potential for hacking. Privacy concerns can be a problem, since being involved with SMS text messaging can open your cell phone to invasion. In some cases, if you have a work cell phone, it is possible for messages to be saved and read later. Additionally, it is possible to get text message records from cell phone providers. This means that what you text can come back to haunt you during a lawsuit or an employment hearing.
Another problem with SMS security is the ability for hackers and others to send malicious software. It is possible to send worms to SMS users, bringing down networks or compromising cell phones. Indeed, during 2009 a sophisticated SMS worm, YXES, surprised many in the technology world. The nature of SMS messaging means that it is possible for the malicious to act in near-anonymity.
Text message recipients also have to worry about spam. Spammy text messages are increasing as cell phones are seen as advertising devices. You might find your number sold to a marketing company, or you might sign up for SMS alerts from a company only to be spammed by pointless alerts several times a week. This can become annoying, and represent an invasion of privacy in some cases. It is important to be aware of these issues before you use SMS messaging. Educating yourself on how to avoid SMS marketing scams can also be helpful.
Protecting Cell Phone Users
Just because there is a security threat does not mean you will be in trouble if accept SMS text messages. Many people enjoy using text messaging for a number of purposes. For sensitive information, such as with bank accounts or with health care SMS text marketing messages, there are security options. IT contracts feature Service Level Agreements which can improve SMS security and reliability. There are companies that make use of these agreements, and you can usually trust these to a certain degree.
There are not many regulations in the United States governing SMS security, although there are some rules in other countries. One of the main regulations in the U.S., though, comes from the financial services industry. The Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) has introduced SMS security regulations designed to protect those who like to do their banking with the help of text messaging. This regulation makes it clear what types of communication are allowed electronically, including via personal text message and business text message marketing.
No matter the steps taken to improve SMS security, though, there are still likely to be some problems. After all, the unscrupulous are always looking for ways to take advantage of technology. No matter the precautions you take with your cell phone, or the regulations that are enacted in the coming years, there is always a slight risk. However, there are risks with your computer and whenever you use a credit card. So you will have to do your best to be prudent, and to avoid opening messages from unknown senders.
Many businesses allow you to opt in to SMS text message marketing campaigns, which allows customers to receive special discounts, coupon codes, unadvertised specials, and more. As an SMS text marketing customer you may choose which companies you wish to receive these promotional text messages from. As a consumer of text message marketing you have the right to also ask the businesses you are willing to accept messages from what kind, or how much, SMS security they provide. The likelihood of contracting a virus from a business who uses a secured text message marketing service is much lower than receiving one from a random spammer, or even a friend.
Business Mobile Messaging Security
If you are a business using SMS text message marketing to reach your customers it is important for you to provide them with the highest level of security by choosing a SMS text messaging service that provides the highest levels of SMS security. Ask your provider what kind of SMS security they provide to you and to your potential mobile marketing customers.