Walla submits texting campaigns through a third party governing organization that is responsible for ensuring businesses requesting texting campaigns are legitimate. One of the requirements to be approved for SMS texting capabilities, all organizations (except sole proprietors) must have a Privacy Policy that follows specific guidelines.
What if I don't have a privacy policy?
A privacy policy is like a set of rules that explains how you will use any personal information you get from your mobile app or website. It's like a formal agreement to protect both your company and your customers.
If your business collects personal info like names, emails, or phone numbers from customers, it's a good idea (and sometimes a legal requirement, depending on where you are) to have a privacy policy.
To be ensure compliancy, add a link to your privacy policy on your website and do not share your customers' phone numbers with other companies. Your privacy policy must explicitly state this. You must have a privacy policy on your website and it must follow 10DLC-compliant guidelines. Here are examples of what to include:
No mobile information will be shared with third parties/affiliates for marketing/promotional purposes. All other categories exclude text messaging originator opt-in data and consent; this information will not be shared with any third parties.
Message and data rates may apply and you may reply STOP to opt-out of messaging; reply HELP for additional messaging help. Message frequency may vary based on usage.
What are some further suggestions for privacy policy compliance?
The CTIA Messaging Principles and Best Practices, in Section 5.2.1, offers helpful advice on what makes a good Privacy Policy: 5.2.1 Maintain and Conspicuously Display a Clear, Easy-to-Understand Privacy Policy
Recommended best practices: When you collect phone numbers through your website, you need to ask for permission in your Privacy Policy, even if there's a disclaimer on the webpage. Your Privacy Policy should also promise that you won't share or sell customer info for marketing. If your business does share or sell information, your Privacy Policy should explain why. Some reasons could be if the business is sold, if it has to follow the law, or if it's involved in payment processing or other business tasks.
It is important to note that these suggestions do not guarantee campaign approval, as the review process is conducted on an individual basis. Walla bears no responsibility or liability for any problems that may arise from implementing the information outlined above. For the most appropriate guidance, we strongly advise you to seek counsel from your legal experts. It's crucial to understand that the information offered in this article is not meant to serve as legal advice.