TSTT to re-open e-mail gateway

TSTT is expected to open the Gateway between the Internet and its Mobile Short Messaging Service (SMS) from tomorrow. This gateway was closed since September 14 after unknown persons were able to use the Internet to distribute a threatening text message to the public via mobile handsets. With the gateway closed, TSTT used the opportunity to upgrade the security and monitoring features of its SMS service. According to Michael Barrow, Executive Vice President for Mobile Services, the improved security systems include new fire walls, Anti-virus protection and Spam filters. He said, “TSTT’s gateway between the Internet and its Mobile network is now built on a completely different digital landscape.”

He noted that the new security and authorisation processes can trace the e-mail addresses that are linked to messages coming in from the Internet. It also limits the number of persons to whom a message can be sent. Barrow said that this security upgrade will also prevent businesses from sending unsolicited advertising messages to the public. He cautioned however that while TSTT was confident about the measures it has put in place to safeguard customers, the company has to remain vigilant as there will be further attempts to compromise the system. At the time of the incident, the public was able to send e-mails and text messages between the Internet and their mobile handsets. Mobile handset owners also used this facility to download ringtones or screen savers to their handsets and receive e-mail messages. Because of the September 14 incident, TSTT will delay the implementation of a charge for receiving Internet messages until April 2004. “This charge,” Barrow maintained, “will be for receiving messages from the Internet where the sender is not an Internet or mobile customers of TSTT.” He said that the fee was necessary to cover the cost of non-TSTT customers using TSTT’s network and that this was a standard practice for the industry.

“When the fee is implemented, TSTT’s mobile customers will have a special user name and password for permitting Internet messages to be received from their handsets,” he continued. “They can therefore choose who they wish to receive Internet messages from.” The re-opening of the gateway is a forerunner to the planned launch of Content Services in January 2004. In collaboration with TELIOS, a local IT company, information such as new headlines, sports and lottery results will be compiled and distributed to customers on demand. Barrow said, “the development of this content service will mark a new milestone in mobile information services and provide an opportunity for local entrepreneurs to develop equally appealing content for mobile users to access.” TSTT has advised that it has provided the Police Services with all of the relevant information the company has gathered to date to assist in investigations into the origins of the threatening September 14 message. The company made no further comment on that ongoing investigation.