MEF has launched the Enterprise Messaging Guide an essential companion to any brand or business using mobile messaging via SMS as part of its customer engagement, be that for marketing, authentication, notification or many of the other purposes the ubiquitous SMS is used for.
Developed by MEF’s 30+ strong group of participants in its Future of Messaging Programme, including mobile operators, global messaging suppliers, hardware and software technology providers and others in the enterprise messaging ecosystem, The Enterprise Messaging Guide can be downloaded here for free.
MEF’s COO, Joanne Lacey discusses why it’s important to educate both the buying and the supplier sides of the messaging market to ensure transparency is promoted across the value chain and to ultimately minimise fraud.
Enterprise or A2P messaging continues its rapid growth as one of the most effective ways for businesses to engage with consumers. It’s also the most trusted form of communication with 35 per cent of consumers in MEF’s recent Mobile Messaging Fraud report identifying it as their preference when it comes to trusting the sender.
However, the channel is open to abuse. The same report found that more than a quarter of consumers (28 per cent) receive an unsolicited SMS message every day with 58 per cent report receiving one every week. The majority of unsolicited mobile messages are of course just spam – notifying consumers of un-wanted offers or service. But there are also more serious fraud cases for example when unauthorised channels are used and customers’ bank details or passwords get into rogue hands.
Businesses and brands risk reputational damage or financial harm if they procure A2P messaging via the sharp operators that are using these unauthorised channels – often known as grey routes – in message delivery.
Last year the MEF’s Future of Messaging Programme participants  identified 11 types of fraud affecting the channel. The latest guide is intended to raise awareness and educate buyers of enterprise messaging to avoid unwittingly engaging in sharp practices and perpetuating these frauds.
It demystifies and defines common industry language and the different roles in the value chain which is by its very nature complex. Significantly the participants of the working group have mapped out six routes authorised for the delivery of enterprise mobile messaging.
It also offers practical procurement guidance and identifies the essential features of enterprise messaging solutions including pricing, compliance and performance.
It’s the responsibility of both buyers and suppliers to protect consumers and work together to tackle enterprise messaging fraud. Thanks to all our members for their active contributions in the creation of the guide.
Download the free MEF Enterprise Messaging Guide now
Developed by MEF’s Future of Messaging Programme, the Enterprise Messaging Guide lifts the lid on the complexities of the market, providing the tools and know-how to help companies procure messaging from legitimate players and avoid fraudulent activity that risks eroding customer confidence or impacting service quality.
The guide walks enterprises through the different parties they will encounter within the messaging ecosystem and demystifies and defines common industry language. Its aim is to aid in the continued delivery of legal, safe, quality and reliable mobile messaging solutions and ensure the ongoing trust of all those who buy, sell and receive mobile messages while supporting the continued and sustained growth of sector.
