Buzz
Everything you need to understand about opting in or out of text messages
Have you ever been asked whether you'd like to opt in or out of receiving text messages, but found yourself uncertain about what it really means? You're not alone. To opt in or out of texts from a business simply means you're granting or withdrawing permission to receive those messages. Keep reading for further details.
Understanding What "Opt" Means in Text Messaging
Opting in to receive text messages from a business means you are granting them permission to send you texts. On the flip side, opting out means you're withdrawing that permission. By law, businesses must ask for your consent before sending text messages, and they must honor your decision to opt out by stopping the messages.
How to Manage Your Opt-In and Opt-Out Preferences
Understanding What "Opt In" and "Opt Out" Mean
"Opt" refers to making a decision. When a business asks you to "opt in" to receiving texts, they're essentially asking if you're okay with them sending you messages. If you agree to opt in, you're giving the company permission to send you text messages, whether automated or not.
- On the other hand, once you've opted in, you also have the option to "opt out." This means you're retracting your consent to receive texts, and the business is required to immediately stop sending them to you.
What Does "Message & Data Rates May Apply" Mean?
Opting in for text messages might incur charges. This is why you might see the phrase "message and data rates may apply" (or simply "data rates may apply"). Depending on your phone plan, receiving texts from businesses could come with a cost if you're limited in the number of texts you can get each month, or if you're receiving a high volume of promotional messages.
- If you're unsure whether a text might cost you, contact your cellular provider for more information.
Different Ways You Might Be Asked to Opt In
Web Forms When you make a purchase or register for a service, you may be asked for permission to receive text messages. These could range from promotional offers, appointment reminders, to customer service alerts. This option is typically presented as a checkbox at the end of the web form or just before you finalize your payment.
- Example: By ticking this box, you agree to receive appointment reminder texts. You also agree to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.
Contact Pages If a business provides a way for you to text them, simply texting them first is considered as opting in.
- Example: Text SALE to 555-555-5555 for the latest sales, discounts, and promotions! Text STOP to unsubscribe at any time.
Double Opt-In Some businesses use a method called "double opt-in." After you opt in via a web form or by texting them, they will confirm your consent by asking again if you're okay with receiving texts.
- Example: Hi! To confirm your subscription to promotional SMS updates, text YES. Text STOP at any time to opt out.
How to Opt Out
Use the keyword you received in the original opt-in message. If you don't have that message anymore, try one of the following keywords:
- STOP
- STOPALL
- CANCEL
- UNSUBSCRIBE
- END
- QUIT
- If none of these options work, you can text HELP for more details.
- Alternatively, contact the business’s customer support for assistance.
Why Opting In and Out is Important
It’s against the law for businesses to text you without your consent. The Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA), passed in 1991, was initially designed to protect against telemarketing calls. Over time, it was updated to cover newer forms of communication, like text messaging.
- Under the TCPA, businesses are prohibited from contacting you unless you've explicitly agreed in writing. Additionally, they must cease texting you immediately once you opt out.
Businesses aim to create meaningful connections with you. By requesting permission to send text messages, companies seek to demonstrate that they value your preferences and trust. Their ultimate goal is to build a long-term relationship with you, fostering customer loyalty and retention.
