Direct carrier biller txtNation has announced that it is expanding its services to reach more countries and integrate with more mobile network operators. Merchants will now be able to connect to the billing platforms of carriers in several countries, including Norway, Sweden, Finland, Denmark and Belgium.

"The speed of the actual transaction using direct billing is unparalleled," said Michael Whelan, txtNation director. "This is a key reason for its gaining popularity and being requested by mobile customers more and more as the preferred method of payment."

Like other carrier billing providers, txtNation offers merchants and consumers a gateway to a mobile network operator's billing platform, allowing consumers to purchase digital goods and place the charge directly on their monthly mobile statement. The payment method is popular with gaming and social network sites where younger consumers may not have access to credit and debit cards.

One issue that concerns some consumers regarding carrier billing is vulnerability to fraud. According to Whelan, the payment method is actually becoming more secure. "Security and fraud risks have been reduced further over the last several years," he said, "moving away from poor digital experiences to one-click, secure payment experiences, where the customer is fed the information in a clear and concise manner."

Based in the U.K., txtNation provides mobile payment and messaging services across North America, Europe, Australia and Africa. 

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