NCC Stops Unsolicited Messages From Network Providers

NCC Stops Unsolicited Messages From Network Providers

The telecommunications service providers in the country have been directed to activate the 'Do Not Disturb' (DND) facility from July 1, 2016.

This gives subscribers the freedom to choose what messages to receive from the various networks.

A short code has assigned for this directive (2442), which will enable subscribers take decisions on their own, instead of the receiving disturbing messages from network providers.

The directive was given in a letter dated April 19th, by the Nigerian Communications Commission to the Mobile Network Operators (MNOs), giving them a deadline of June 30th, 2016 to stop sending messages or calling subscribers.

The fine given if there's no compliance is N5 million, and N500,000 per day as long as the contravention persists.

Director of Public Affairs of NCC, Tony Ojobo, in a statement said the action was taken following subscribers protests of unsolicited texts messages and phone calls that look like a contact was calling. 

The commission also invoked a regulatory provision, which had been overlooked by the operators. The commission have therefore given the necessary instructions and clarifications that will enable subscribers choose which service(s) or none.

The NCC further explained that sending 'STOP' to 2442 completely disallows any messages or calls from the network providers.

See the various options the commission listed:

• “SMS 1” for receiving SMS relating to Banking/Insurance/ Financial products to 2442
• “SMS 2” for receiving SMS relating to real Estate to 2442
• “SMS 3” for receiving SMS relating to Education to 2442
• “SMS 4” for receiving SMS relating to Health to 2442
• “SMS 5” for receiving SMS relating to Consumer goods and Automobiles to 2442”
• “SMS 6” for receiving SMS relating to Communication/ Broadcasting Entertainment/IT to 2442
• “SMS 7” for receiving SMS relating to Tourism and Leisure to 2442
• “SMS 8” for receiving SMS relating to Sports to 2442
• “SMS 9” for receiving SMS relating to Religion to 2442