Use cutecom to send hex command to get out of KISS mode see picture.
When cmd prompt is received change mode to CR and send KISS OFF then PERM then RESTART.
Beacon Text:
btext !5203.79N/00111.43E%PIC16F88Digi
btext !5203.79N/00111.43E#PIC16F88Digi attended only
beacon every 30
perm