14 DAY TRIAL // There are a lot of SMS scams currently doing the rounds. However, it’s good to know that authorities manage to identify and charge at least some of the individuals that run such deceptive campaigns.
The US Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has announced that an Internet marketer, Henry Nolan Kelly, has agreed to settle the charges brought against him.
A large number of complaints have been filed with the FTC regarding unsolicited SMS messages that promised gift cards and expensive electronic devices. It’s believed that Kelly sent out over 20 million SMS spam messages promising free iPads and iPhones to unsuspecting consumers.
Those who fell for the scam unwittingly signed up for premium services.
Kelly is banned from having any involvement in SMS spam campaigns. He’s also prohibited from misleading consumers regarding free gifts and prizes they might have won.
In addition, he will have to pay $60,950 (€46,000), which represents the amount of money he made through the scam.
Kelly is only one of the many individuals believed to be running such SMS spam schemes.