by Becky Bushnell | Engaging Results Communications

“On Oct. 16, 2013, an update to the Telephone Consumer Protection Act will take effect. For companies that run mobile marketing (text message) campaigns, you will need to know the following rule changes:

• First, you may no longer add consumers’ cell phone numbers to your marketing lists without their permission (you shouldn’t be doing that anyway). The FCC now requires that you obtain unambiguous written consent from your subscribers—that means current ones, too.

• Second, a consumer who has made a purchase with your business may not be added automatically to your text message marketing list. That’s because the FCC will not grant exemptions for any ‘established business relationship.’ If you’re not sure what this means, think of how many times you’ve purchased something online or in a store and then later found yourself the recipient of email marketing and/or direct mail.

“I’m glad that the FCC is trying to protect consumers from unsolicited text messages. In turn, we at Engaging Results Communications are focused on helping businesses stay up-to-date on the new regulations.

“Click for more information on TCPA compliance.”

“‘Prior express written consent’ needed for calls and SMS to cell phones.” – arstechnica.com