ComReg launches SMS Sender ID Registry to help prevent text scams

Many types of organisations, such as banks, medical organisations (e.g. hospitals, pharmacies, GP practices), delivery companies, schools and clubs, rely on SMS text messages to send a range of communications to customers, clients and members. These texts may relate to financial transactions, delivery updates and appointment reminders. These types of business-to-person SMS messages typically include the sender's name (e.g. 234BANK) - this is known as the SMS Sender ID. However, scam texts have compromised SMS, impacting both organisations and consumers negatively. ComReg has now launched an SMS Sender ID Registry (‘Registry’) in Ireland to help prevent text scams and to help protect SMS as a reliable and trustworthy communications channel. The Registry is a secure repository of:

• Registered SMS Sender IDs;
• Sender ID Owners (organisations using SMS Sender IDs);
• Participating Mobile Service Providers; and
• Participating SMS Aggregators.

From 3 July 2025, SMS from unregistered Sender IDs will be modified to “Likely Scam” to alert the recipient that the SMS may not be genuine. From 3 October 2025, these messages will be blocked and will not reach consumers. Note: If you are a business using 5-digit SMS short codes (e.g. 53xxx, 57xxx etc.) you do not need to register these codes in the Registry. You also do not need to register your mobile phone number. Organisations using SMS Sender IDs in their communications to mobile customers in Ireland must register their Sender ID now. Please see comreg.ie/senderid Stay Scam Safe This initiative is one of a number of anti-scam interventions, developed by ComReg and the telecommunications industry, that are being put in place to help protect consumers and businesses in Ireland. The overall net financial benefit of all the interventions is estimated at approximately €1.2 Billion by 2030, in addition to the huge benefits to society of reducing scam calls and texts.