SMS Compliance Policy

CMSU is committed to ensuring that all SMS communications adhere to regulatory requirements and best practices to protect the rights of recipients and maintain transparency in our messaging. This policy outlines the procedures and standards for managing SMS campaigns, including opt-in, opt-out, HELP, and general compliance guidelines.

1. Consent Requirements

  • CMSU will only send SMS messages to recipients who have explicitly opted in.

  • Consent is collected through clear opt-in methods, such as online forms, written agreements, or text-based opt-in campaigns.

  • All opt-in messages will include:

    • CMSU’s name.

    • Message purpose and frequency.

    • Disclosure of any associated message and data rates.

Example:

"Welcome to CMSU notifications! Reply YES to opt in. Msg freq: 2 msgs/month. Msg & data rates may apply. Reply STOP to cancel."

2. Opt-Out Process

  • All SMS messages will include opt-out instructions (e.g., "Reply STOP to unsubscribe").

  • Opt-out requests are processed immediately, with no further messages sent to the recipient unless they opt back in.

  • Opt-out confirmation messages will include:

    • CMSU’s name.

    • A statement confirming the cessation of messages.

Example:

"You’ve opted out of CMSU alerts. You won’t receive further messages. For support, call 570-275-6080."

3. HELP Message Requirements

  • HELP responses must include:

    • CMSU’s name.

    • Support contact (email, phone number, or website).

    • Fees disclosure (e.g., "Msg & data rates may apply").

Example:

"CMSU: For support, call 570-275-6080 or visit cmsu.org. Msg & data rates may apply."

4. Message Content Guidelines

  • All messages will:

    • Clearly identify CMSU as the sender.

    • Avoid misleading or deceptive language.

    • Include required disclosures, such as fees and opt-out instructions.

5. Frequency Limitations

  • CMSU will limit the number of SMS messages sent to recipients to the frequency disclosed during opt-in.

  • Any changes to frequency will require a new opt-in from recipients.

6. Data Protection and Privacy

  • CMSU will protect recipients' contact information and comply with applicable data protection laws.

  • Recipient information will not be shared, sold, or used for purposes beyond what was specified during opt-in.

7. Monitoring and Auditing

  • CMSU will regularly monitor SMS campaigns for compliance with this policy.

  • Non-compliant messages will be flagged and corrected promptly.

Violations

Non-compliance with this policy may result in disciplinary action, including suspension of SMS campaign privileges. CMSU reserves the right to update this policy to reflect changes in regulatory requirements.

Contact Information

If you have questions about this policy, please contact CMSU support:

SMS consent and phone numbers will never be shared with third parties or affiliates under any circumstances.