Great wiki page on SMS message regulations.
Regulations and best practices for SMS messages are governed by the Mobile Marketing Association, which publishes a code of conduct and a best practices guide for use by those involved in mobile messaging activities. Ultimately, all SMS messages sent using Recess Mobile applications must include the following elements.
Double-Opt In
Your SMS messages must include a double opt-in process, where the subscriber confirms twice that they wish to receive SMS messages from you. For example, an MO JOIN message would prompt the following MT reply:
Reply YES to receive Example.com Sales. 1 or more msgs/day 4 desired alerts. Reply STOP 2 end. HELP 4 info. Msg&Data Rates May Apply.
From there, a MO YES message would prompt the following MT reply:
Your 1st alert will arrive soon. Reply STOP to end, Help 4 info. Msg&Data Rates May Apply.
Single Opt-Out
Your SMS messages must include a single opt-out process that immediately discontinues sales and marketing SMS messages to a subscriber. For example, a MO STOP message would prompt the following MT reply:
You have opted out of future Example.com alert msgs. For more information reply HELP or visit http://www.recessmobile.com
Help
Your SMS messages must include a HELP message with the following information:
- A clear declaration of company name or applicable program
- a web link with mobile program details and terms and conditions
- a toll-free customer service phone number
For example, an MO HELP request would prompt the following MT message:
For more info: http://www.example.com/mobilealerts, email: help@example.com or call 1.866.555.1111. Reply STOP to stop. Msg&data rates may apply.
**Mandatory Message and Data Rates Update
Beginning October 1, 2009, the phrase “Standard Message charges apply” is no longer acceptable. For all digital advertising formats and message flows, one of the following phrases must be used in its place:
- Message and Data Rates May Apply
- Msg&Data Rates May Apply
- Msg&data rates may apply
- Msg&data rates may aply