The Legal Considerations of SMS Marketing

As a disclaimer, Snapi SMS does take responsibility for text messages sent. The below content is for information purposes only. Please follow the guidance in your country.

If you run a small business, you might be thinking about using SMS marketing to connect with your clients and increase revenue. Sending promotional messages to customers by text message is known as SMS marketing, or short messaging service marketing. Even while SMS marketing can be a potent tool, it's crucial to be aware of the legal ramifications. Here are some essential considerations:

Get permission before sending marketing messages

Obtaining consent from your clients before sending them marketing messages is one of the most crucial legal considerations when it comes to SMS marketing. Before sending customers marketing texts through text message in the US, companies must first seek their express written authorization. This requirement comes from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). As a result, you must ask clients to consent to receiving SMS marketing communications from you and maintain a record of their decision.

Use clear and conspicuous language in opt-in requests

Respecting clients' privacy is a crucial legal aspect when it comes to SMS marketing. This means that you shouldn't disclose a customer's personal information to a third party without the client's consent, such as their phone number or email address. Additionally, you want to have a privacy policy in place that describes how you gather, use, and distribute consumer data.

Provide an easy way for customers to opt-out

Customers must be given the option to stop receiving SMS marketing messages from you in addition to giving you their previous approval. This implies that you should make it simple for clients to unsubscribe from your SMS marketing messages by including an opt-out button in each message you send. The FCC mandates that companies comply with opt-out requests in a reasonable amount of time, usually 30 days.

We handle opt-outs automatically

Snapi SMS implements a basic opt-out process that is included by default with text messages that are sent to recipients on first contact. They can opt-out at our opt-out page.

Comply with industry standards and best practices

Finally, when it comes to SMS marketing, it's critical to adhere to best practises and industry standards. This entails abiding by the rules established by groups like the Direct Marketing Association (DMA) and the Mobile Marketing Association (MMA), as well as keeping up of any regulatory requirements or regulations that might be relevant to your company.

To sum up, SMS marketing can be an effective strategy for small companies trying to connect with clients and increase sales. However, it is crucial to be aware of the legal implications and to take precautions to make sure you are abiding by all applicable laws and professional standards. You can utilise SMS marketing to advertise your business without breaking the law by obtaining consent from customers before sending marketing messages, using obvious language, protecting customers' privacy, offering a simple means for customers to opt-out, and adhering to industry standards.