ReveNet, a new entrant in the Application-to-Person (A2P) SMS market, is addressing some of the telecommunications industry’s most persistent challenges: revenue leakage, SMS fraud, and lack of transparency. Launched in Cape Town during the week of AfricaTech 2024, the company’s innovative platform was praised by mobile network operators (MNOs) for offering actionable solutions to secure and optimise their networks.
A2P SMS remains vital for MNOs, delivering critical communications such as one-time passwords and banking notifications. However, fraud, grey routing, and opaque business practices continue to erode its value. ReveNet’s comprehensive approach offers operators a pathway to reclaim control over their networks and revenues while future-proofing their systems against emerging threats.
Solving revenue leakage through transparency
During its market research, ReveNet identified widespread revenue loss, with MNOs reporting that up to 30% of their A2P SMS traffic bypasses legitimate billing channels. “Few, if any, would declare all the traffic they bring into my network,” an MNO stated. “At best, I’m getting maybe 70% of the traffic declared based on the SMS rate I’m given.”
Chris Hunter, Chief Revenue Officer at ReveNet, explained the company’s approach: “We asked MNOs what they wanted, and the answer was clear: transparency and trust. Our portal provides real-time visibility into traffic, fraud patterns, and billing, ensuring operators regain control of their ecosystems.”
The ReveNet platform sets itself apart by eliminating the “black box” models often associated with firewall providers. Instead, operators receive transparent data, enabling them to make informed decisions. “We show them everything—grey traffic, fraud spots, even where attempts to circumvent the network occurred,” added Johnny Robinson, Chief Commercial Development Officer.
Bridging the gap between security and sustainability
ReveNet’s emphasis on transparency goes hand-in-hand with its robust security measures. Using advanced AI, machine learning, and penetration testing, the platform safeguards networks against fraudulent activity. “Bad actors adapt quickly, but so do we,” said Hunter. “Our team continuously evolves the technology to block threats like phishing and smishing while ensuring the SMS channel remains secure and reliable.”
The platform’s strength lies in its dual focus on protecting networks and sustaining MNO revenues. “SMS might not be the sexiest technology, but it’s transformative,” Robinson noted. “When managed properly, it bridges the digital divide, drives economic activity, and delivers secure, mission-critical communications.”
A focus on Africa’s unique needs
ReveNet is particularly focused on Africa, where limited 4G/5G coverage and high smartphone costs mean that SMS is often the only reliable communication channel. “The African market requires a country-by-country approach,” Hunter remarked. “We have to consider varying regulatory landscapes, network configurations, and the economic realities of each region.”
At the Mobile Monday event, ReveNet engaged with regulators and MNOs to address these challenges. One standout discussion revolved around grey routing, which remains a major revenue drain for operators. “We’re here to plug those gaps and ensure that operators can deliver secure, high-quality SMS services,” said Robinson.
A disruptive vision for the future
ReveNet’s platform is more than just a technological solution—it’s a call for industry-wide change. “For too long, operators have been left in the dark, reliant on opaque services that don’t prioritise their needs,” said Hunter. “We’re changing that by offering auditable transparency and a partnership-driven model.”
With zero CapEx or Opex required for onboarding, the ReveNet platform seamlessly integrates into existing workflows, delivering immediate results. This ease of implementation has resonated with MNOs across Africa, leading to partnerships in markets like Malawi.
Robinson summed up the company’s ambition: “We want MNOs to ask themselves one simple question — are you getting the service you deserve? If not, it’s time to consider a new approach.”
