has implemented a mandatory registration for text-based alphanumeric sender IDs as of October 1, 2026. The regulatory authority RTR announced that only registered IDs, which use letters like bank names instead of numbers, can reach end users.
A new public directory now contains over 8,500 valid IDs after RTR manually checked 14,000 entries for plausibility. must verify IDs against this list before delivery, as direct alphanumeric SMS transmissions from abroad are now prohibited.
With over 9,000 fraud complaints in 2026, Managing Director Klaus M. Steinmaurer noted the move targets SMS scams. Operators are now liable for violations, ensuring that any sender ID not included in the official RTR directory will be blocked immediately.