Text message mystery
En masse SMS spam ‘not our doing’: KAP
A BATCH of self-destructing text messages purportedly sent to Queensland mobile phones appear to be unsolicited on two fronts – both by those receiving them and the party supposedly sending them.
Katter’s Australian Party issued a statement saying any en masse SMS was not its doing.
“A number of Queens- landers have reported to the party that they have received text messages purporting to be from Bob Katter and Katter’s Australian Party,” it said. “The party can confirm that these messages are not authorised and have been sent by an unknown source.
“KAP does not send unsolicited text messages.
“If you receive these messages, please delete and disregard.”
A party spokesman told the Cairns Post he did not believe the messages contained derogatory content aimed at discrediting KAP candidates and incumbent MPs.
However, he was unaware of their actual content, saying the messages deleted themselves once they were opened.
“It wasn’t anything negative, which is why they thought it came from us,” he said.
Unsolicited text messages have been a particular point of controversy in recent days as mining magnate and almostcertain federal election candidate Clive Palmer ramps up a gratuitous advertising campaign for the United Australia Party.
Geographically tailored messages espousing the party’s platform and pledges have been sent across Australia, despite multiple complaints from recipients.
Mr Palmer has also launched his own mobile and tablet game, titled Humble Meme Merchant, where he battles politicians – including Opposition Leader Bill Shorten, whose head is attached to the body of a cockroach.
It also features a spoof version of Culture Club’s hit song, Karma Chameleon.
Management for the UK band’s singer Boy George has warned of potential legal action over the song’s use.