Mover & Shaker Interview with VOX Solutions, Future Digital Awards Platinum Winner for Best Flash Call Authentication Solution
Juniper Research interviewed Ehsan Ahmadi, CEO & Founder of VOX Solutions in February 2024
Ehsan brings more than 20 years of entrepreneurial and executive experience with leading technology companies.
Always passionate about technologies and solutions, and turning pain points into new opportunities, Ehsan was also an early investor, business angel and advisory board member of many successful start-ups. Ehsan holds a BS in computer science and electrical engineering from UPB, and an MBA from LSE.
1. How has VOX solutions seen the market evolve for flash calling over the last 12 months?
The evolution of flash calling has experienced widespread growth across various regions, particularly accelerating in areas characterised by high population and high rates. Among these regions, the most significant surge has been witnessed in the APAC (Asia Pacific), CIS (Commonwealth of Independent States), and MENA (Middle East & North Africa) regions.
Given the considerable scale of this trend, it is imperative for mobile network operators to actively participate in shaping and adapting to it within a standardised framework. With respect to the evolution of flash calling, we believe the following to occur:
- Penetration will accelerate due to growing prices of A2P SMS and capped messaging budgets of major enterprises.
- Vast majority of MNOs still do not have a flash calling solution implemented on their network, meaning over 90% of flash calls in the market will remain undetected.
- Countries with high SMS rates and high population remain prone to accelerated flash calling adoption, most notably MENA & APAC.
2. How important is authentication for enterprises, and what roles does flash calling play today?
Authentication holds a paramount importance for enterprises, serving as a cornerstone for secure operations. It is essential for enterprises, but also for the adoption of alternative channels (Google RCS still starts with the user registering via SMS). To that end, due to its cost, flash calling emerged as an important channel for authentication purposes. The rate of adoption of flash calling hinges on the degree to which operators are formally integrated into a collaborative framework. Unfortunately, without unified collaboration, flash calling tends to be mostly used by fraudulent aggregators, sent instead of SMS. For that reason, it does not represent a sustainable channel under the current framework, as MNOs can implement solutions to block it. This has an impact on enterprises which were promised they can use it as an alternative to SMS in given networks.
3. What visibility do operators have on flash calling traffic, and how can they improve their view on traffic on networks?
Research indicates that over 90% of flash calling traffic remains unidentified by mobile network operators, prompting the inclination to block such traffic. However, solutions exist to empower operators with control over this traffic. VOX Solutions has pioneered the development of such a solution, offering the capability to either block or monetise flash calling, transforming it into an officially recognised end-to-end channel. As far as we know, we remain the sole company to have implemented such a solution directly on operators’ premises, and as mentioned, the vast majority of MNOs still do not have a flash calling solution implemented, meaning we expect over 90% of flash calls in the market to remain undetected in 2024.
4. How does VOX360 enable operators to handle the growth of authentication over the voice channel?
VOX360 empowers operators to manage the expanding demand for authentication via the voice channel by facilitating the transformation of flash calling into an authorised and revenue-generating channel. This grants enterprises the assurance of utilising the channel consistently as a pivotal component of their omnichannel strategy, mitigating the risk of potential blockages by operators in the future. To that end, VOX360, which is powered by ML (Machine Learning), is the only solution implemented (to VOX Solutions’ knowledge) that gives operators the ability to either block or monetise flash calls, thus turning A2P voice into an end-to-end monetisable channel.
5. What benefits does VOX360 provide to operators in the flash calling space?
As a Managed Service, VOX360 drives immediate revenue increase by actively monitoring in-out flows, using traffic admission policies, limiting unauthorised service use, while boosting security, compliance, and cost reduction efforts through up-to-date systems, using cutting-edge proprietary AI technologies, industry best practices, and methodologies and dedicated personnel with extensive experience in A2P fraud detection/prevention and monetisation.
The issue so far was the lack of a seamless solution for MNOs to totally control the Flash Calling environment, allowing operators to define related trunks and an associated A2P rate, all whilst rejecting calls coming from other (P2P) trunks. At VOX Solutions, we have the solution for the problem, allowing MNOs from now on to monetise flash calls, by:
- Protect A2P SMS and voice business segments by actively detecting flash calls.
- Identifying the difference between P2P and A2P activity within the network.
- Creating a monetisable channel for flash calls.
- Enabling the entire journey for flash call monetisation, from detection, to pricing, billing, grey route mitigation and complete monetisation.
All in all, we allow MNOs to control every aspect in the movement, including price. For example, one can price flash calls marginally below SMS, bringing perhaps 2FA (Two-factor Authentication) capabilities to an audience that could not previously afford it, therefore actually expanding the 2FA market.
6. Where does VOX Solutions envisage the market for flash calling developing over the next two years?
Operators leverage their mobile channels for messaging, and while A2P SMS has been a significant revenue-generating business, this revenue is under threat with the introduction of flash calling, as the technology will cannibalise A2P SMS traffic.
According to Juniper Research, by 2026 there will be nearly 130 billion calls expected to be used for authentication, as an increasing number of brands and enterprises look to capitalise from the benefits of flash calling.
As this traffic grows, it becomes increasingly important for operators to be able to ensure they can identify and monetise this traffic. Migration of authentication traffic is inevitable, and operators must position themselves to capitalise on it.
Vox Solutions has achieved a significant milestone by being recognized as a Tier 1 vendor, according to ROCCO’s 2024 SMS Monetization Market Impact Report. This distinction underscores the company’s leadership and innovation in the telecommunications industry.
Hong Kong, April 23, 2024 – VOX Solutions, a leading innovator in the telecom sector, proudly announces its prestigious recognition as a Tier 1 vendor in the 2024 SMS Monetisation Market Impact report by ROCCO Research. This recognition is the outcome of the voting of 273 Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) who provided their perspectives on critical aspects of SMS monetization, resulting in VOX Solutions being recognized as Tier 1 out of 28 rated vendors.
The ROCCO report, esteemed for its in-depth analysis and insights into the SMS monetization industry, assesses vendors based on feedback coming directly from MNOs globally. Evaluation criteria include factors such as reliability, customer service, flexibility, and value for money. Achieving Tier 1 status highlights VOX Solutions’ exemplary performance in these areas, cementing its status as an industry trailblazer.
“We are thrilled to be recognized by ROCCO and the global telecom community as a Tier 1 vendor in SMS Monetisation,” said Ehsan Ahmadi, CEO of VOX Solutions. “This accolade is a testament to our team’s dedication, hard work, and our continuous drive to excel in serving our customers. We remain committed to pushing the boundaries of innovation and delivering solutions that not only meet but surpass the evolving needs of the telecommunications sector.”
Jason Bryan, CEO of ROCCO, commented on the achievement: “With the participation of mobile operators from around the world, VOX Solutions has been recognised as a Tier One provider in SMS Monetisation. MNOs have praised the value for money offered by the solution and the ability to proactively test for network penetration. In addition, operators have indicated that VOX Solutions is an inspiring and innovative vendor. Congratulations to the team at VOX!”
The SMS Monetisation Market Impact report by ROCCO serves as an essential guide for MNOs navigating the vendor landscape in this crucial sector. VOX Solutions’ Tier 1 vendor status is a notable accomplishment, indicating its robust market presence, comprehensive product offerings, and the transformative effect of its solutions on the telecom industry.
VOX Solutions offers SMS monetization solutions aimed at assisting MNOs in maximizing revenue from A2P (Application-to-Person) SMS traffic while upholding the highest standards of security and compliance. By utilizing advanced technology and adopting a customer-focused approach, VOX Solutions has become a preferred partner for telecom operators globally.
For additional information about VOX Solutions and its award-winning SMS monetization solutions, please visit www.voxsolutions.co.
About VOX Solutions:
VOX Solutions simplifies, improves, and optimises Voice and SMS channels using the latest innovations in technology. The company enables mobile operators to monetize their A2P services in a sustainable way, leveraging proprietary technology.
VOX Solutions utilises its multi-award-winning anti-fraud technology, VOX-360, to offer a reliable, accurate and real-time view of operators’ voice and SMS services. By partnering with operators, VOX Solutions provides secure & reliable 2FA services to enterprises, globally.
For MNOs, VOX Solutions is focused on monetization of SMS and Voice services, being the first company in the market to offer a Flash Calling (Voice A2P) end-to-end solution.
For the enterprise segment, VOX Solutions focus on A2P messaging, A2P & P2P Voice, while also providing solutions focused on Cloud Communications.
Its unique VOX-360 solution also won numerous global awards for the anti-fraud, flash call authentication and AI/ML innovations.
About ROCCO:
ROCCO was founded in 2012 and from its conception has been a catalyst for innovation with Research, Strategy and Education for the telecoms industry. Creating reports on Roaming, Messaging and Fraud and Security, ROCCO delivers on-demand training and strategic consulting which together provide a rich foundation on which to build strategic excellence. With ROCCO’s insights, Mobile Operators, their vendors and Enterprises globally can face connectivity challenges more robustly.
Vox Solutions is honored to be ranked Tier 1 vendor in ROCCO’s 2024 SMS Monetisation Market Impact Report.
ROCCO Research distinguishes as a catalyst for innovation, providing expertise in research, strategy, and education.
This acknowledgment is the outcome of 273 Mobile Network Operators’ input who provided their perspectives on critical aspects of SMS monetization resulting in Vox Solutions being recognized as Tier 1 out of 28 rated vendors.
We extend our deepest gratitude to both our customers and the judging panel. We are committed to continuing on our path of innovation and providing advanced solutions that drive our clients towards success!
Hong Kong, March 26, 2024 – Juniper Research has unveiled a critical whitepaper detailing the pervasive and insidious issue of Artificially Inflated Traffic (AIT) and SMS Trashing within the business messaging sector. The comprehensive study was conducted in collaboration with VOX Solutions, with the aim to cast light on fraudulent activities that have led to increased operational costs for enterprises by charging for non-existent SMS traffic.
This new research reveals that in 2023, known AIT accounted for 18% of all international A2P SMS traffic, costing enterprises, including those of notable figures like Elon Musk, upwards of $60 million annually. Such staggering figures bring to light the urgent need for mobile operators to devise and implement robust strategies to protect their revenue streams and customer trust.
Key Highlights from Juniper Research:
- Juniper Research estimates the global cost of AIT to enterprises at $8.5 billion in 2023, signalling a dire need for immediate action.
- By 2027, AIT is expected to account for 11% of traffic, costing $23.4 billion to enterprises, with the highest penetration in Central & East Europe, and Far East & China.
- AIT and SMS trashing create substantial revenue for fraudsters by expanding SMS traffic volumes “artificially”.
- Sources of AGT (Artificially Generated Traffic), such as bots and AI, are increasingly complex, making detection difficult.
The whitepaper emphasises the dire consequences of unchecked AIT, including the potential collapse of business messaging as a reliable channel and the shift to alternatives like OTT platforms or biometric authentication methods. Juniper Research calls upon all industry stakeholders to collaborate in combating these fraudulent practices.
In light of these findings, the CEO of VOX Solutions, Ehsan Ahmadi, remarks, “The scourge of AIT represents one of the most stealthy and damaging threats to the integrity of A2P messaging channels today. It is imperative that as an industry, we rally together to deploy sophisticated defences against these invisible yet costly attacks.”
“Understanding the scale of AIT is essential for the industry. It’s a pervasive issue that not only affects the profitability of SMS channels but also erodes trust in these critical communication platforms,” says Sam Barker, VP of Telecoms Market Research at Juniper Research. “Operators and enterprises must respond with sophisticated measures to safeguard against these fraudulent activities.”
The whitepaper by Juniper Research presents a detailed analysis of the business messaging ecosystem’s vulnerabilities, emphasising the importance of innovative solutions and strategic collaborations to combat these challenges.
To discover more about the intricate dynamics of SMS fraud and the strategies to mitigate its impact, access the full whitepaper by Juniper Research: HERE
About VOX Solutions:
Vox Solutions simplifies, improves, and optimises Voice and SMS channels using the latest innovations in technology. The company enables mobile operators to monetize their A2P services in a sustainable way, leveraging proprietary technology.
Vox Solutions utilises its multi-award-winning anti-fraud technology, VOX-360, to offer a reliable, accurate and real-time view of operators’ voice and SMS services. By partnering with operators, Vox Solutions provides secure & reliable 2FA services to enterprises, globally.
For MNOs, Vox Solutions is focused on monetization of SMS and Voice services, being the first company in the market to offer a Flash Calling (Voice A2P) end-to-end solution.
For the enterprise segment, Vox Solutions focus on A2P messaging, A2P & P2P Voice, while also providing solutions focused on Cloud Communications.
Its unique VOX-360 solution also won numerous global awards for the anti-fraud, flash call authentication and AI/ML innovations.
About Juniper Research:
Juniper Research was founded in 2001 by the industry consultant Tony Crabtree, in the midst of the telecoms and dot-com crash. The business was fully incorporated in February 2002 and has since grown to become one of the leading analyst firms in the mobile and digital tech sector.
Juniper Research specialises in identifying and appraising new high growth market sectors within the digital ecosystem. Market sizing and forecasting are the cornerstones of our offering, together with competitive analysis, strategic assessment and business modelling.
We endeavour to provide independent and impartial analysis of both current and emerging opportunities via a team of dedicated specialists – all knowledgeable, experienced and experts in their field.
Our clients range from mobile operators through to content providers, vendors and financial institutions. Juniper Research’s client base spans the globe, with the majority of our clients based in North America, Western Europe and the Far East.
HONG KONG, March 5, 2024 – VOX Solutions, a leading innovator in the telecom sector, proudly announces the appointment of Alan Murphy as Vice President of Engineering. Alan brings with him a wealth of experience, having spent over two decades at the forefront of telecom innovation, specialising in messaging, roaming, and security products.
Alan has been instrumental in creating award-winning products that serve billions of subscribers globally. His pioneering work includes the development of the first multi-protocol Signalling Firewall, demonstrating his commitment to advancing industry standards and securing mobile networks against a multitude of threats.
His extensive background as a founder, CTO, and VP of Product and Engineering has seen him lead significant projects across international markets. With multiple roles as Technical Architect and CTO, Alan has consistently delivered cutting-edge solutions. His contributions to the field have been recognized with a ROCCO Innovation award and through his active participation in influential industry groups like the GSMA Fraud and Security Group.
Prior to joining VOX Solutions, Alan served as Chief Technology Officer at Zariot, where he enhanced security and analytics for enterprise IoT fleets. He also played a vital role in the Executive Management Team at AdaptiveMobile Security / Enea AB, contributing to the strategic acquisition process and the deployment of comprehensive security products.
“We are truly honoured and grateful to have a professional of such calibre in the VOX team” says Ehsan Ahmadi, CEO & Founder Vox Solutions. “His appointment represents a reiteration of Vox Solutions commitment on delivering cutting edge technologies for mobile operators continuously innovating in the area of A2P monetization and anti-fraud”.
On stepping into his new role, Alan expressed enthusiasm about the potential for further innovation at VOX Solutions. “I am excited to join a dynamic and innovative company, such as VOX Solutions, to help build onto its award-winning products to provide value to our partners in the industry” said Murphy.
Alan’s appointment marks a significant milestone for VOX Solutions, as the company continues to expand its global footprint and enhance its product offerings. His proven track record, expertise, and vision are set to reinforce VOX’s position as an industry leader and pioneer.
About VOX Solutions
Vox Solutions simplifies, improves, and optimises Voice and SMS channels using the latest innovations in technology. The company enables mobile operators to monetize their A2P services in a sustainable way, leveraging proprietary technology.
Vox Solutions utilises its multi-award-winning anti-fraud technology, VOX-360, to offer a reliable, accurate and real-time view of operators’ voice and SMS services. By partnering with operators, Vox Solutions provides secure & reliable 2FA services to enterprises, globally.
For MNOs, Vox Solutions is focused on monetization of SMS and Voice services, being the first company in the market to offer a Flash Calling (Voice A2P) end-to-end solution.
For the enterprise segment, Vox Solutions focus on A2P messaging, A2P & P2P Voice, while also providing solutions focused on Cloud Communications.
Its unique VOX-360 solution also won numerous global awards for the anti-fraud, flash call authentication and AI/ML innovations.
We are proud to receive the “Best Flash Call Authentication Solution – Platinum Winner” award for the third consecutive time, and honored by this recognition.
Vox Solutions offers Mobile Network Operators a solution to stop or monetize A2P Voice traffic (Flash Calling), being the first player to develop and implement such a solution.
This prestigious title demonstrates our continuous commitment to offering operators a simple and effective approach to address Voice and Messaging fraud using a cohesive omni-channel platform. Leveraging this distinctive platform, unparalleled in our industry, MNOs can discern, forecast, and alleviate fraud in demanding markets, particularly in voice, where profit margins are crucial.
We remain committed to providing advanced technology and innovation, which drive our clients towards success!