SCTC SMS/MMS Messaging Policy

This SCTC SMS/MMS Messaging Policy governs all application-to-person (A2P) messaging activity that traverses the SCTC network. This is SCTC’s own SMS Compliance Policy, and it applies to all messaging traffic on SCTC’s network, including traffic originating from or on behalf of SCTC’s customers and their end users. It defines the rules SCTC enforces to maintain compliance and good standing with wireless carriers and The Campaign Registry (TCR). SCTC has adopted this Policy to align with industry standards, carrier requirements, and applicable laws and regulations governing business text messaging.

1. Scope
This Policy governs all A2P SMS and MMS messages sent over SCTC services, including 10DLC, toll-free, and short code programs.

2. Consent
Customers must obtain, document, and retain valid consent prior to sending any message. For marketing communications, consent must be express and in writing, clearly identifying the program and the number to which messages will be sent.

3. Required Disclosures at Opt-in
All opt-in experiences must clearly display:
(a) the program or brand name;
(b) a brief program description;
(c) “Message and data rates may apply”;
(d) message frequency (e.g., “message frequency may vary”);
(e) opt-out instructions (“Reply STOP to cancel”);
(f) help instructions (“Reply HELP for help”);
(g) hyperlinks to the Terms and Privacy Policy.

4. Program Messages
The initial confirmation message must include the brand name, program name, opt-out and help instructions, rates notice, and frequency disclosure.
Example:
“{Brand}: You’re opted in to {Program}. Msg&data rates may apply. Freq varies. Reply STOP to cancel, HELP for help. Terms/Privacy: {links}.”

5. Opt-out and Help
Messages containing “STOP” must immediately cease messaging to that number for the related program(s) and return a single confirmation message.

Messages containing “HELP” must return the program name, brief assistance text, and a valid support contact (toll-free number or email).

Opt-out requests submitted through any reasonable means must be honored promptly.

6. Quiet Hours
Marketing messages may only be sent between 8:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m. local time of the recipient.

7. Content Restrictions
Prohibited content includes, without limitation, SHAFT categories (sex, hate, alcohol, firearms, tobacco) and any unlawful, deceptive, or abusive material.

Age-gated content requires compliant age verification and appropriate geographic restrictions.

8. Link and Deliverability Practices
Use branded domains for all links. Avoid public URL shorteners. Do not send link-only messages or repetitive high-volume identical content.

9. 10DLC Registration
Customers must maintain an approved Brand and Campaign registration with accurate message flow, sample messages, and opt-in evidence.

Unregistered or misrepresented traffic is strictly prohibited.

10. Data and Records

Customers must maintain for at least four (4) years:

Consent artifacts and timestamps
Opt-in source/URL or form
Program name and message content
HELP/STOP response logs
Suppression lists and related compliance records

11. Carrier and SCTC Rights

Wireless carriers and SCTC reserve the right to block, suspend, or terminate messaging that violates this Policy or any carrier code of conduct.

SCTC may also pass through carrier fines or fees associated with such violations.

12. Enforcement
Violations may result in warnings, suspension, surcharges/fines, or termination under the MSA/AUP.
Customers agree to indemnify and hold SCTC harmless for any claims, penalties, or losses arising from their messaging practices.

13. Changes
SCTC may update this Policy as necessary to reflect changes in law, carrier standards, or The Campaign Registry requirements. Continued use of SCTC messaging services after notice constitutes acceptance of any such updates.