10DLC Prohibited Content
Last updated: August 8, 2025
Why it matters
10DLC (10-Digit Long Code) messaging is regulated by U.S. carriers to protect consumers from spam and harmful content. Staying compliant maintains trust, safeguards deliverability, and avoids costly penalties.
What is prohibited
Do not use 10DLC to send content that contains, promotes, or facilitates any of the following:
| Category | Examples |
|---|---|
| Illegal content | Any activity unlawful under federal or state law |
| Controlled substances | Marijuana, THC, CBD/cannabis products, regardless of state legality |
| Prescription drugs | Offers or promotions for prescription medication |
| Gambling | Casinos, sports betting, paid raffles, betting tips (unless explicitly approved) |
| Adult content | Pornography, sexually explicit images, sexual solicitation |
| Hate/Harassment | Hate speech, threats, intimidation, incitement to violence |
| Fraud & scams | Phishing, deceptive offers, impersonation of brands or individuals |
| Firearms & explosives | Sale/promotion or facilitation of firearms, ammunition, explosives |
| Malware / harmful links | Links to malicious software, phishing or unsafe sites |
SHAFT policy
Carriers apply the SHAFT rule—blocking content related to Sex, Hate, Alcohol, Firearms, Tobacco—except where expressly allowed under law and with carrier pre-approval (e.g., age-gated alcohol campaigns).
Restricted (approval required)
Some topics are highly regulated and may be permitted only with explicit carrier approval and additional controls:
- Age-restricted offers (alcohol, tobacco/vaping)
- Charitable donations via text
- Sweepstakes and contests
- Certain political, advocacy, or public-policy messaging
Consequences for violations
- Immediate message blocking by carriers
- Campaign or number suspension/termination
- Carrier fines (often $500–$10,000 per incident)
- Permanent bans from 10DLC messaging
Best practices
- Review message text, images, and links for compliance prior to sending
- Maintain clear opt-in records and easy opt-out (“Reply STOP to end”)
- Avoid prohibited keywords and shortened links that obscure destinations
- Secure explicit approvals for any restricted content before launch
- When in doubt, ask our team to review your content
FAQ
Can I promote CBD or cannabis?
No. CBD/THC/cannabis content is treated as prohibited by U.S. carriers for 10DLC messaging.
Are contests or raffles allowed?
Only if compliant with applicable laws and pre-approved by carriers as part of your registered campaign.
What about alcohol promotions?
Possible with strict age-gating and carrier pre-approval. Without approval, such content is blocked.
How do I get help?
If you’re unsure whether your content is allowed, please contact our support team and include a sample of the exact message you plan to send.
This article is for informational purposes and does not replace carrier rules or laws. Carriers may update enforcement at any time.