Experience seamless communication with your church community through Tithely's messaging feature. While it's an efficient way to share updates, encouragements, and event details, there may be times when SMS messages don't get delivered as expected. This article dives into common reasons for SMS delivery failures within Tithely Messaging and offers solutions to ensure your important messages reach their intended recipients.
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"Contact requested does not permit SMS"
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This error code generally indicates that the recipient's phone settings or provider are preventing the message from being received. It may mean the phone number is unable to receive texts, or that the carrier or device itself is restricting text reception. This issue needs to be resolved by the recipient, by adjusting their phone settings or contacting their provider for assistance.
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Unsubscribed Users
- When a user responds "STOP" to your text messages, it unsubscribes them from receiving further communications. To help a user resubscribe, please see this article: Help: I Unsubscribed from Church Messages, How Do I Re-Subscribe?
How to Prevent Your SMS Messages from Being Flagged
When using SMS services like Messaging to send messages to your audience, it's crucial to ensure your messages comply with carrier guidelines. One common reason messages get flagged is the inclusion of URLs, especially shortened URLs.
Understanding SMS Message Filtering
Carriers use various filters to protect their networks and customers from spam and harmful content. Messages that don't comply with their guidelines are often flagged and blocked. One of the key elements that can trigger these filters is the use of URLs, particularly shortened URLs, which can be perceived as suspicious.
Why URLs and URL Shortening are Problematic
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Suspicion of Spam: URLs, especially shortened ones, can be associated with spam or phishing attempts. Carriers are more likely to block messages containing these links to protect their users.
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Unknown Destinations: Shortened URLs obscure the final destination, making it harder for carriers to verify the link's safety.
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High Risk of Abuse: URL shorteners are frequently abused by spammers to hide malicious links, leading carriers to be cautious about messages containing these links.
Best Practices to Avoid Message Flagging
To ensure your messages reach their intended recipients without being flagged, follow these best practices:
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Avoid Using URLs: Whenever possible, avoid including URLs in your SMS messages. Provide essential information within the text of the message itself.
Example:
- Instead of: "Click the link to sign up for a Sunday https://tinyurl.com/samplelink"
- Use: "Sign up to volunteer this Sunday at Hope Baptist Church! Visit our website for more details."
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Use Full URLs if Necessary: If you must include a URL, use the full, unshortened version. This approach helps carriers assess the link's legitimacy. However, be aware, there is a high chance the message can still be flagged.
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Provide Context: Give your recipients enough context about the URL. Explain where the link leads and why it's important.
Example:
- "Hope Baptist Church needs volunteers for Kids Praise! Visit www.hopebapstissammplechurch.com/samplelink to sign up."
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Leverage Alternative Communication Channels: Direct your audience to your website or social media for more detailed information that cannot fit into a single SMS message. It is best to avoid links in SMS messages completely.
Example:
- "For volunteer sign-up details, check our website or visit our Facebook page!"
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Use Recognizable Domains: Ensure that any URLs used are from recognizable and trusted domains. Avoid using newly created domains, as they might raise red flags.
Conclusion
By avoiding URLs in your SMS messages, you can significantly reduce the chances of your messages being flagged and blocked by carriers. Focus on clear communication and provide the necessary context to ensure your messages get delivered successfully. By following these guidelines, you can improve your message delivery rates and ensure effective communication with your audience.