Globe to refresh VAS system on March 5, enforce tighter rules

Following their recent announcement that they will tighten securities on third-party value-added services (VAS) providers for prepaid customers, Globe has announced that they will refresh their VAS system starting March 5 for enhanced security measures.

Effective March 5, 2018, all VAS content partners will be migrated to a new system for enhanced security measures. This refresh will also prompt customers to redo their opt-in enrollment to the VAS of their choice like infotexts, ringtones, wallpapers, by clicking on the web link or sending an SMS keyword to the 4-digit access code to confirm their request.

In compliance with the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) Memorandum Circular No. 03-03-2005-A, the reinforced measures adhere to the 3-step verification process:

1) A customer clicks on an SMS or digital ad and is redirected to another SMS or a landing page with proper information on the service or product offered.

2) Once the customer clicks to confirm subscription, a verification code will be sent to their mobile number that is needed to further confirm availment of the service.

3) Once the code is entered and verified, only then will the customer receive a notification confirming his VAS subscription. The notification will contain an unsubscribe or opt-out option in case the customer changes his mind.

In addition, VAS providers will only be allowed to send out content that is deemed relevant based on customer interest to avoid spam messages.

“This system refresh is a major step to ensure our customers’ protection at every step of their VAS transaction. We are confident that these measures will greatly contribute to an improved online experience especially those that involve charging and payment,” Globe General Counsel Froilan Castelo said.