To make sure your guests receive their photos and videos via text message without issues, it's important to follow the messaging guidelines outlined by cellular carriers. Messages that don't follow these rules can be flagged as spam or even result in your account being suspended. This article explains what to do and what to avoid when crafting SMS messages that include your media links.
Table of Contents:
✅ The Do’s: Best Practices for SMS Messaging
Change your message per event:
Repeating the same message across all events can trigger spam filters. Slightly customize the message for each event to keep it unique.Keep your message simple and clear:
Use natural language that sounds like a real person, not a robot or marketing blast.
❌ The Don’ts: What Triggers Spam Filters
Don't add extra links:
Limit your message to just one link—typically the photo or video gallery link. Adding more than one link is a red flag.Don’t use hashtags or @ symbols:
Avoid using characters like#or@, which are common in spam messages and could result in delivery issues.
🚫 Forbidden Content: What Will Get Your Message Blocked Completely
Carriers prohibit any reference or links related to the following categories. Including these can result in immediate account suspension:
High-Risk Financial Services
Payday loans, short-term or high-interest loans
Third-party auto/mortgage loans
Student loans
Cryptocurrency
Lead Generation Services
Any company that buys, sells, or shares consumer information
Debt Collection or Forgiveness
Third-party debt collection
Debt consolidation or reduction
Credit repair programs
“Get Rich Quick” Schemes
Work-from-home programs
Investment opportunities
Pyramid schemes
Illegal Substances
Cannabis, CBD (U.S.)
Prescription drugs
Gambling
Casino apps
Gambling websites
S.H.A.F.T. Categories
These are strictly forbidden in any form:
Sex
Hate
Alcohol
Firearms
Tobacco
Final Tips:
Always test your message before sending.
If a message is getting flagged, remove all non-essential elements like emojis or extra punctuation.
Stick to one link and make sure it directs to a clean, mobile-friendly landing page.
Need Help?If you're unsure about your message, our support team is here to help you review and suggest changes. Just reach out!