In instances where data needs to be transferred freely across a server and client applications, Firebase Cloud Messaging (FCM)—along with IP networking—should be utilized instead of other means, such as the Short Messaging Service (SMS) protocol. FCM is a multi-platform messaging solution that facilitates the seamless and reliable transfer of messages between applications.

SMS is not a good candidate for transferring data messages, because:

• It is not encrypted
• It is not strongly authenticated
• Messages sent via SMS are subject to spoofing
• SMS messages are subject to interception