54% of South Africans live below the poverty line, surviving on R779 or less a month many can barely afford enough food. So to be charged to opt out of unwanted SMS communication puts further pressure on those under financial strain. “When individuals reply STOP to unsubscribe, they’re having to pay for that SMS to unsubscribe from communication, they maybe didn’t even request,” advises SMSPortal MD, Charles Stretch. In section 11 of the Consumer Protection Act (CPA) (No. 68 of 2008), it … [Read more...] about Consumers wrongfully footing opt-out bill
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The SMS reinvented
Congratulations to hackathon winner Dylan Warwick and runner up Languteka Machebe who took part in the 22 and 23 April hackathon to reinvent the SMS at Propella Futuremakers Hub. The system developed by Warwick will be used by Propella Futuremakers Hub to communicate with the Propella database. "Warwick’s system was the most versatile, and met our business requirements," says Mara Jacobs, receptionist and administrator at Propella Futuremakers Hub. "With this new SMS system we are able … [Read more...] about The SMS reinvented
Increase social media traffic with SMS
Considering the growth and numbers related to social media and how integrated into our lives, and our relationship with our mobile phone. It’s no surprise that brands are using SMS to acquire social media traffic to increase engagement and sales. 83% of text messages are read within the first three minutes of receipt, and the open rate for texts is 98%. So it’s easy to understand how SMS allows easier interaction for brands. Using this platform business can prompt customers to participate on … [Read more...] about Increase social media traffic with SMS
Privacy shouldn’t come at a price
Privacy shouldn’t come at a price, and as consumers we are entitled to restrict unwanted direct marketing and have the right to privacy. But, South Africa’s Wireless Application Service Provider’s Association (WASPA) code of conduct allows its members to charge consumers to opt-out of direct SMS marketing. But, the Consumer Protection Act (CPA) dictates that no fee may be charged for any opt-out. So where does this leave consumers? According to the CPA consumers must be able to … [Read more...] about Privacy shouldn’t come at a price
SMS to Win
The residents of our Lake Farm Centre need your assistance! All you have to do is SMS the word CARE followed by LAKE FARM CENTRE to 32512. This is part of a wider competition for a number of charities. SMS's cost only R1.50 and if Lake Farm Centre is the lucky SMS drawn we win R200 000 and if you sent the winning SMS you will win R2000. A Win-Win situation! PLEASE all send an SMS or 2 now – Entries for this round close on 11 March 2013. Thank you so much! Kind … [Read more...] about SMS to Win
