USSD (Unstructured Supplementary Service Data)

USSD (Unstructured Supplementary Service Data) is a protocol used by GSM cellular telephones to communicate with the service provider‘s computers. It is used to send text between a mobile phone and an application program in the network. It is also referred to as a “feature code“ or “quick code“. USSD can be used for WAP browsing, prepaid callback service, mobile–money services, location–based content services, menu–based information services, and as part of configuring the phone on the network. USSD is a valuable tool for businesses to use for customer engagement and customer service. It allows companies to send messages to customers and receive responses in real time.

This is especially useful for companies that require customer input such as surveys, polls, and customer feedback. USSD can also be used for sending notifications, providing customer support, and offering promotions. USSD is also used by mobile phone operators to provide a range of services such as balance enquiries, top–ups and account management. USSD is also used for mobile banking, allowing customers to access their banking data and make transactions without needing to install a mobile banking app. USSD commands are sent as text messages and are typically shorter than SMS messages.

USSD messages are also sent over a secure connection, making them more secure than SMS messages. USSD is an efficient and cost–effective way for businesses to communicate with their customers. It can be used to send notifications, provide customer support, and offer promotions.

It is also used by mobile phone operators for a wide range of services, such as balance enquiries, top–ups and account management. USSD is a powerful tool for businesses to use for customer engagement and customer service.

Common USSD services include mobile banking, balance inquiries, recharge services, prepaid airtime top–up, data bundles, and other services related to payment transactions.

USSD SECURITY ISSUES?

1. Unauthorized Access: Unauthorized access occurs when someone gains access to a system or service without the proper credentials or authorization.

2. Denial of Service Attacks: Denial of service attacks are attempts to make a service or system unavailable by flooding it with requests or traffic.

3. Malware: Malicious software, or malware, is any software that is designed to cause harm or steal data from a device or network.

4. Phishing: Phishing is a type of social engineering attack where the attacker attempts to trick users into providing sensitive information or downloading malicious software.

5. SIM Swap Fraud: SIM swap fraud is a type of attack where an attacker obtains access to a user’s mobile phone account by performing a port out request to a new SIM card.