UK SMS Anti-Spam Policy

At CastMessage, we are committed to ensuring that our platform is used responsibly and in compliance with all UK regulations governing SMS communications. This Anti-Spam Policy outlines our zero-tolerance approach to spam and provides guidelines for acceptable use of our SMS services within the United Kingdom.

What is SMS Spam?

In the UK, SMS spam refers to any unsolicited text messages sent without the recipient's prior consent. This includes promotional messages, advertisements, or any other content sent to individuals who have not explicitly opted in to receive such communications via text message.

UK SMS Regulations

SMS marketing in the UK is primarily governed by the following regulations:

  • Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations (PECR): These regulations work alongside the UK GDPR and specifically cover electronic communications, including SMS messages.
  • UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR): Governs how personal data, including phone numbers, must be processed.
  • Data Protection Act 2018: The UK's implementation of data protection standards.
  • Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) Guidelines: The ICO provides specific guidance on SMS marketing compliance.

Our Commitment to UK Compliance

CastMessage is dedicated to maintaining the integrity of our platform by preventing spam and ensuring compliance with UK SMS regulations. Key aspects of our commitment include:

  • Consent Requirements: We enforce the PECR requirement for explicit opt-in consent before marketing messages can be sent.
  • Sender Identification: We ensure all messages clearly identify the sender as required by UK regulations.
  • Opt-Out Mechanisms: We provide and enforce clear, simple opt-out mechanisms in compliance with PECR.
  • Timing Restrictions: We advise users to respect appropriate timing for SMS communications (not before 8am or after 9pm).

Acceptable Use Policy for UK SMS

To ensure compliance with UK regulations, all users of CastMessage must adhere to the following guidelines:

  • Obtain Explicit Consent: Only send SMS messages to recipients who have explicitly opted in to receive communications from you. Under PECR, this consent must be specific, informed, and freely given.
  • Provide Clear Identification: Every message must clearly identify your business or organisation as the sender.
  • Include Opt-Out Mechanisms: Every SMS must include a clear and free way for recipients to opt out of future communications (e.g., "Text STOP to [number] to unsubscribe").
  • Maintain Records: Keep records of how and when consent was obtained from each recipient.
  • Respect Opt-Outs: Immediately honour all opt-out requests and maintain a suppression list.
  • Avoid Misleading Content: Do not send messages with false, deceptive, or misleading information.
  • Respect Timing: Avoid sending messages outside of reasonable hours (8am-9pm is generally considered acceptable).

Prohibited Activities

The following activities are strictly prohibited on the CastMessage platform and violate UK regulations:

  • Sending messages to recipients who have not provided explicit consent (soft opt-in may apply in limited circumstances for existing customers).
  • Using purchased, rented, or third-party contact lists without verifiable consent.
  • Sending messages containing illegal, abusive, or offensive content.
  • Using the platform for phishing, fraud, or other malicious activities.
  • Failing to honour opt-out requests promptly.
  • Sending messages that conceal or misrepresent the sender's identity.
  • Using sender names that impersonate other organisations or brands (see our banned words list).

Consequences of Violations

Violations of this Anti-Spam Policy may result in the following actions:

  • Immediate suspension or termination of your CastMessage account.
  • Reporting of violations to the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) or other relevant UK regulatory bodies.
  • Legal action to recover damages caused by non-compliance.
  • Potential fines of up to £500,000 from the ICO for serious PECR violations (which would be your responsibility as the sender).

Reporting Spam

If you believe you have received spam from a user of CastMessage, please report it to us immediately. Include the following details in your report:

  • The phone number or sender ID from which the message was sent.
  • A copy of the message you received.
  • The date and time the message was received.

Send your report to support@castmessage.com. We take all reports seriously and will investigate promptly.

You can also report SMS spam directly to the ICO via their website at https://ico.org.uk/make-a-complaint/ or to your mobile network operator.

UK SMS Best Practices

To ensure the best experience for your recipients and maintain compliance with UK regulations, we recommend the following best practices:

  • Always use clear, concise language in your messages.
  • Include your business name at the beginning of each message.
  • Keep messages relevant and valuable to the recipient.
  • Limit the frequency of messages to avoid recipient fatigue.
  • Test your messages before sending to large groups.
  • Regularly clean and update your contact lists.
  • Implement a double opt-in process for added compliance security.

Contact Us

If you have any questions about this UK SMS Anti-Spam Policy or need assistance with compliance, please contact us at: