What the GDPR Means for SMS Marketing

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The GDPR applies to SMS marketing just like it does with any other form of digital communication. Here are the key elements that SMS marketers need to remember.

Consent Is King
Gone are the days of pre-checked boxes or bulgaria whatsapp number data implied consent. Businesses must now acquire explicit, freely given consent from individuals before sending them marketing messages. This means clear opt-in mechanisms that mention SMS marketing specifically.

Transparency Matters
The GDPR requires organizations to inform individuals about the intended use of their collected phone numbers, which includes the type of marketing content they can expect to receive via SMS. In addition, a clear and accessible privacy policy outlining your organization’s data collection practices is mandatory.


(Image source: emotive.com)
Opt-Outs Must Be Offered
The GDPR doesn’t dictate the specific method, but businesses must provide a clear and straightforward opt-out option within every SMS message they send to customers. Businesses must then respond to opt-out requests as promptly as possible and cease sending SMS marketing messages to the customer immediately.

Data Security Takes Priority
Mobile phone numbers are considered personal data under GDPR. As such, businesses must implement appropriate technical and organizational safeguards to protect this information from unauthorized access, loss, or misuse at all times.