SMS Consent & Opt-In Information

Overview: What is Shield Message SMS?

Shield Message is a failsafe messaging service that allows users to create time-sensitive messages that are automatically delivered if they fail to check in within a specified timeframe (deadman switch). Our SMS service is an optional premium feature that enables message delivery via text message in addition to email.

We take your privacy and consent seriously. To comply with the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA) and ensure no unsolicited messages are sent, we use a mandatory double opt-in process for all SMS recipients.

Important:No automated messages will be sent to you until you explicitly provide consent by replying "START" to the invitation message.

The SMS Opt-In Workflow

Here's exactly how our SMS consent process works, step by step:

1. User Registration

A Shield Message user creates an account and sets up failsafe messages. When creating a message, they can designate you as a recipient by providing your phone number.

2. Initial Invitation SMS

You receive a one-time invitation text message that explains:

• Who designated you as a recipient (the Shield Message user)
• What Shield Message is and how it works
• That you will only receive messages if that user fails to check in
• Clear instructions on how to opt in by replying "START"
• A link to this page for complete details
• Instructions on how to opt out at any time

Important: This invitation message is the ONLY message you will receive until you explicitly consent.

Example Opt-In Invitation

The invitation message you receive will look like this:

This is the only message you will receive before giving consent. No further messages will be sent unless you reply "START".

3. Your Explicit Consent (Opt-In)

To receive failsafe messages, you must reply to the invitation with the word "START". This is your explicit consent to receive automated SMS messages from Shield Message on behalf of the user who designated you.

You are NOT opted in unless you reply "START".

4. Confirmation Message

After you reply "START", you will receive a confirmation text acknowledging your consent and reminding you that you can opt out at any time by replying "STOP".

5. Active Status - Message Delivery Enabled

Only after completing steps 1-4 will you be eligible to receive failsafe messages. You will only receive a message if the user who designated you fails to check in within their specified timeframe.

Message Frequency:Message frequency varies and depends entirely on the user's check-in behavior. You may receive zero messages, one message, or multiple messages over time - there is no set schedule.

6. Opt-Out & Support Keywords

You can opt out at any time by replying STOP to any message. You will immediately be removed from the recipient list and will not receive any further messages. There are no fees or penalties for opting out.

Reply HELP to any message to receive support information, including a link to this page and our contact email.

Your Rights and Legal Protections

• No Unsolicited Messages:You will never receive automated messages without your explicit consent (the "START" reply).
• Clear Disclosure:The invitation message clearly explains what you're opting into and provides a link to this detailed information page.
• Easy Opt-Out:You can stop receiving messages at any time by replying "STOP" - no complicated procedures required.
• TCPA Compliance: Our double opt-in process exceeds TCPA requirements to protect your rights and prevent spam.
• Data Privacy: Your phone number is stored securely and used only for the purpose of delivering failsafe messages. See our Privacy Policy for complete details.

Message Rates and Charges

Standard messaging and data rates may applybased on your mobile carrier's plan. Shield Message does not charge you for receiving SMS messages, but your carrier may charge you according to your text messaging plan.

If you have questions about your carrier's rates, please contact your mobile service provider.

Supported Carriers

Our SMS service is supported by all major U.S. carriers including AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon, Sprint, and most regional carriers. If you experience issues receiving messages, please contact us or check with your carrier about SMS blocking settings.

Technical Details

• Service Provider: SMS messages are delivered via Twilio, a trusted telecommunications platform.
• Message Content: Messages contain the failsafe content created by the user who designated you as a recipient.
• Consent Verification:Your "START" response is logged with a timestamp for compliance verification purposes.
• Opt-Out Processing:"STOP" responses are processed immediately and automatically.

Questions or Concerns?

If you have questions about the SMS opt-in process, your consent rights, or how to manage your preferences, please contact us:

Email: contact@shieldmessage.com