What is a sender ID?
A sender ID is the name that appears at the top of a text message instead of a phone number. For example, a business or brand name. It helps people quickly recognise who the message is from.
Why ‘unverified’ messages matter
People are being warned to be cautious about text message scams, so many are quick to delete anything that looks unfamiliar. If your messages are labelled ‘unverified’, customers may miss important updates from you, like appointment reminders, delivery updates or payment alerts.
What you need to do
If you use or want to use a business name as your sender ID, contact your telco or SMS messaging provider as soon as possible to register it. They will submit the registration on your behalf.
If you don’t use a sender ID and send texts from a phone number instead, you don’t need to take any action.
How this helps your customers too
Registered sender IDs help customers trust that messages are genuine. When people know which name to expect from your business, they’re better able to spot scam texts from someone imitating your business or generally pretending to be someone else.
Having trouble with business messaging?
If registering your sender ID or managing SMS services leads to problems with your telco, start by raising the issue directly with them. If you can’t resolve it or feel stuck, contact the TIO. We’re free, fair and here to help small businesses and individuals