Overview
The messaging use cases described in this article are strictly prohibited on SMS and MMS platforms in the United States and Canada.
These rules apply to Short Code, Toll-Free, and Long Code (A2P 10DLC) messaging.
Restrictions apply based on both message content and business type, regardless of intent or opt-in status.
Failure to comply will result in message blocking, account suspension, and carrier fines.
Forbidden Message Categories
Additional Restrictions
Even if a use case is not explicitly listed as forbidden, message content may still be restricted by carriers.
Shared or public URL shorteners are not allowed (e.g., bit.ly, tinyurl).
Only company-branded short URLs may be used in SMS/MMS messages.
Carrier filtering may occur even when businesses are legal at the state level.
Enforcement and Penalties
Account Suspension
Violations of this policy will result in immediate suspension of SMS/MMS services for the account.
T-Mobile Sev-0 Violations (Effective February 15, 2024)
T-Mobile enforces Sev-0 violations for prohibited A2P 10DLC content.
A Sev-0 violation is the most severe compliance classification.
Consequences include:
Immediate message blocking
Non-compliance fines ranging from $500 to $2,000 per violation
Potential permanent suspension from the T-Mobile network for repeated or severe offenses
Kyrios Systems will pass all carrier fines directly to the violating account holder.
Important Compliance Notes
SMS/MMS compliance is governed by federal law and carrier policy, not state legality.
Cannabis, CBD, gambling, firearms, debt services, and high-risk financial products remain non-compliant, even if legal in certain regions.
Messages must originate from the organization directly providing the service.
Third-party marketing, lead buying, or data sharing is not permitted.
FAQ
What happens if I violate the SMS/MMS messaging policy?
Violations result in immediate suspension of SMS/MMS services for the account, along with potential carrier fines and permanent network restrictions.
Are there fines for sending prohibited content over T-Mobile’s network?
Yes. As of February 15, 2024, T-Mobile issues Sev-0 fines ranging from $500 to $2,000 per violation, and blocks offending messages immediately.
Can I send messages related to cannabis or CBD?
No. Cannabis and CBD-related SMS/MMS messaging is prohibited in the US and Canada.
Alternative channels such as email or social media may be used where legally permitted and with proper age verification.
What is a Sev-0 violation?
A Sev-0 violation is the highest level of carrier enforcement.
It results in:
Immediate message blocking
Financial penalties
Possible permanent loss of access to the carrier network
Are URL shorteners allowed in SMS/MMS?
No. Public or shared URL shorteners are prohibited.
Only company-branded short links are allowed.
How often do compliance rules change?
Carrier compliance rules change frequently. Accounts are responsible for staying current with all updates to avoid violations.
What should I do if my use case is prohibited?
If your use case is not allowed on SMS/MMS, use alternative channels such as:
LC Email
Social media platforms
On-site messaging or chat
All alternatives must still comply with applicable laws and platform policies.
Can third-party financial or debt services send A2P 10DLC messages?
No. Third-party loans, debt collection, lead generation, or marketing are prohibited. Messages must come directly from the service provider.
My business is legal in my state. Why is my content still blocked?
SMS/MMS rules are enforced at the federal and carrier level, not state level. Carrier policies override local legality for messaging compliance.