Yes, 10DLC (10-Digit Long Code) registration and ongoing compliance require a website.
When registering for 10DLC, a crucial component for successful approval and ongoing compliance is the presence of a functional and compliant website. This isn't merely a suggestion; it's a fundamental requirement, primarily because your website serves as the primary touchpoint for establishing transparent communication practices and securing necessary consent from your customers.
Why is a Website Mandatory for 10DLC?
A core reason for the website requirement under 10DLC guidelines is the mandatory display of SMS opt-in consent. As per 10DLC guidelines, it's mandatory to have SMS opt-in consent clearly articulated on your website. This means businesses must explicitly outline how customers provide consent to receive SMS messages from them directly on their website. This requirement extends beyond just large-scale SMS marketing campaigns; it applies equally to one-on-one SMS communications with your customers. Without a publicly accessible and compliant website demonstrating these opt-in mechanisms, your 10DLC application may face delays or rejection.
Key elements often required on your website to support 10DLC compliance include:
- Clear Call to Action for SMS Opt-in:
- Explicit instructions on how users can subscribe to receive SMS messages (e.g., through a web form, by checking a box during checkout, or instructions to text a specific keyword).
- Clear description of the type of messages users will receive (e.g., promotional alerts, order updates, customer service replies).
- Privacy Policy:
- A comprehensive privacy policy detailing how user data, including phone numbers, is collected, used, and shared.
- It should specifically mention the handling of SMS opt-in data and adherence to privacy regulations.
- Terms of Service (or Messaging Terms & Conditions):
- Outlining the terms under which SMS messages will be sent.
- This should cover crucial disclosures such as message frequency (e.g., "approx. 4 messages/month"), potential message and data rates, and clear instructions for opting out (e.g., "Text STOP to unsubscribe") and seeking help (e.g., "Text HELP for assistance").
- Support Contact Information:
- Easy-to-find contact details for customer support, such as a phone number, email address, or a link to a support page, to handle inquiries or complaints related to SMS communications.
Practical Insights for Your 10DLC Compliant Website
To ensure your website meets 10DLC requirements effectively, consider the following practical insights:
- Transparency is Key: Be upfront and unambiguous about your messaging practices. Users should clearly understand what they are signing up for, including the nature and frequency of messages.
- Prominent Placement: Ensure your SMS opt-in instructions, privacy policy, and terms of service are easily accessible and prominently displayed on relevant pages of your website, especially where phone numbers are collected.
- Consistency Across Channels: The opt-in language, terms, and conditions displayed on your website should be consistent with any messaging you send out (e.g., initial welcome messages, auto-replies).
- Double Opt-in (Recommended): While not always strictly mandated by 10DLC, implementing a double opt-in process (where users confirm their subscription via an initial text message) is a strong best practice. This reinforces consent and significantly reduces the likelihood of spam complaints.
Essential Website Elements for 10DLC Compliance
| Element | Purpose for 10DLC Compliance |
|---|---|
| SMS Opt-in Mechanism | Mandatory element to demonstrate explicit consumer consent for receiving SMS messages. This applies to both promotional and transactional (one-on-one) communications and must clearly state the type of messages and expected frequency. |
| Privacy Policy | Informs users how their personal data, specifically phone numbers, is collected, stored, and used in the context of SMS messaging. It ensures compliance with data protection and privacy regulations. |
| Messaging Terms & Conditions (ToS) | Details the specific terms of your SMS program, including: - Message frequency (e.g., "You will receive X messages per month") - "Message and data rates may apply" disclaimer - Clear opt-out instructions (e.g., "Reply STOP to unsubscribe") - Support instructions (e.g., "Reply HELP for assistance") - Any applicable carrier liability disclaimers. |
| Support Contact Information | Provides a clear and accessible way for users to get assistance, ask questions, or report issues related to your SMS program. This typically includes an email address, phone number, or a direct link to a support page. |
Having a well-maintained and compliant website is therefore an indispensable part of your 10DLC registration and ongoing operation, serving as the foundational platform for transparent and consented SMS communication with your audience.
