Manama — The Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) Bahrain, in collaboration with the Kingdom’s mobile network operators (MNOs), has launched comprehensive “Guidelines for Reducing Fraudulent SMS”, a national initiative designed to curb the rising threat of scam messages and enhance mobile user safety.
The guidelines were developed following the formation of a joint working group between the TRA and Bahrain’s MNOs to address online security challenges affecting telecom users. Fraudulent SMS — often used in phishing and financial scams — has been identified as a significant and fast-growing risk to consumers in the Kingdom.
The new framework sets out clear technical and procedural measures for operators to detect, block, and mitigate scam messages. It also emphasizes user awareness, reporting mechanisms, and compliance with Bahrain’s data protection and regulatory standards.
Shaikh Abdulla Bin Humood Al Khalifa, Director of Consumer and Communications at TRA, said:
“This collaborative effort with mobile operators reflects our shared commitment to protecting consumers in Bahrain. By working together, we ensure that telecom services can be used with greater confidence and security.”
Philip Marnick, General Director of TRA, added:
“These guidelines show what can be achieved when regulators and industry partners unite. Our goal is to protect people in Bahrain from scams and strengthen trust in the nation’s telecom networks.”
The TRA reaffirmed that the initiative underscores Bahrain’s leadership in digital trust and consumer protection, ensuring that the country’s telecom infrastructure remains secure, transparent, and resilient against evolving cyber threats.
