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How do I avoid "carrier violations" when sending texts?
How do I avoid "carrier violations" when sending texts?
Updated over a month ago

Have you sent out a text message communication or text-to-give ask through your 'Donor Management' system and noticed that your text message failed to send to some folks due to a “carrier violation?”

This article will help explain “carrier violations” and how to avoid them when sending text-based communications through our system. ​

1) What does 'Text Message Undelivered - Carrier Violation' mean?

The cell phone provider has chosen not to deliver the text message you sent because they have flagged it as a violation. ​


2) ​Is there any way to view why my message was flagged?

Unfortunately, no. Carriers do not provide additional details to Bonterra about why a message was flagged as a "carrier violation".


​3) Why do carriers flag certain messages as violations?

Phone carriers want to protect their users from unwanted, potentially harmful messaging. The most common reason a message is flagged is that the cell phone provider believes the message to contain either Junk/Spam content - or the message attempts to scam the recipients out of their funds. ​


​4) What are some common reasons messages are flagged?

  • sending too many messages from the same number within a short time frame

  • sending the same message to the same recipients within a short time frame

  • using red flag phrases or words, such as “send cash” or “urgent help”
    (Click here to view a helpful list of common “flagged” words.)

  • attaching large files or images

  • including shortened links to websites within the message

  • attaching multiple images and links

  • typing in all caps or using an excessive amount of special characters in your message

5) How can you avoid triggering a carrier violation?

  • make sure your messages are only sent to those who have chosen to "opt-in"

  • send short, concise texts to a small, targeted audience

  • avoid the use of language that could flag your message as spam or marketing

  • avoid attaching images or links in the messages

  • avoid over-capitalization or use of unnecessary special characters

  • include visible “opt-out” instructions at the end of each message - for example: “Reply STOP if you no longer wish to receive these messages.

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