Uganda communication commission launches cord to control unwanted SMS

The Uganda communication commission has launched an “OPT OUT” code for subscribers who receive unwanted SMS from the different telecommunication service providers.

A statement issued out by UCC noted that All operators and short code users must implement a universal OPT-OUT short code 196 and operate a “Do Not Disturb” register for SMS and MMS.

The statement directs that OPT OUT instructions should be embedded at the beginning of every SMS sent to customers except for isolated cases of peer to peer.

“Customers should now be able to STOP receiving all unwanted SMS by either sending“STOPALL” to 196 or dial *196#. Except for peer to peer messages, all SMS messages should have the OPT-OUT instructions; “Dial *196# or send “STOP” to 196 to opt-out” the statement reads in Part.

“This message should always be incorporated as part of the message at the beginning of the message. All SMS messages should have the short code address/identifier displayed and should be quoted in case of registering a complaint”.

The commission notes that on dialing *196#, the customer will receive a menu and follow the prompts to opt out of either aparticular short code that originates messages of a telecom network operator.

The service also gives an option to reignite the SMS service in case the customer needs to receive the messages from the services earlier opted out.

The launch follows a loud out cry from mobile phone users over unwanted massages that come with undefined charges.