Mobile spam is beginning to plague SA users

Wireless Application Service Providers Association deputy chairman Pieter de Villiers says phone spam will remain a problem for some time, but notes that it is at least growing at a slower rate than the e-mail variety. The law requires that phone users must opt in if they wish to receive messages from companies, but because of a lack of clarity in legislation and certain firms misleading consumers, spammers can generally ply their trade unhindered, says De Villiers. He says that it is not necessarily that current legislation is insufficient but what is needed is a test case, he says, which could set a precedent. Essential to regulating the problem, would be the creation of a mechanism that allows users to report spam and that is able to take action against spammers. The WASPA is currently putting together a code of conduct for its members that will address spam and will put procedures in place for the consumer to follow. Full ITWeb report