Chesapeake Capital Group
Compliance Regulations and Client Privacy
I. Introduction
This document provides a comprehensive guide for organizations seeking to ensure full compliance with 10DLC (10-Digit Long Code) regulations across mass text messaging, phone calls, and email marketing campaigns. In today’s digital economy, maintaining regulatory compliance is essential not only to avoid costly penalties but also to protect consumer trust and brand integrity. This guide explains the rules and standards that govern business communications, helping you create compliant marketing practices while reaching your audience effectively.
II. 10DLC Compliance for Mass Text Messaging
A. What is 10DLC?
10DLC stands for 10-Digit Long Code, a type of phone number approved by major mobile carriers for sending high-volume business text messages. Unlike shared short codes or toll-free numbers, 10DLCs are tied to a specific business and allow for improved trust and transparency. They are especially suitable for customer notifications, promotions, and transactional messaging.
B. Registration Requirements
Before using 10DLC, businesses must register their brand and campaign details through The Campaign Registry (TCR). This process includes submitting information about the organization, intended messaging use cases, and content types. Some campaigns require additional vetting, and documentation such as sample messages, privacy policies, and opt-in language must be provided. Registration ensures traceability and accountability for all messaging traffic.
C. Carrier Requirements
Each carrier (e.g., AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon) has unique rules regarding message throughput, delivery speed, and content filtering. Registered 10DLC traffic is prioritized and less likely to be blocked. However, exceeding volume thresholds or sending non-compliant content can result in throttling or message delays. Adhering to carrier-specific guidelines is key to maintaining smooth and uninterrupted messaging services.
D. Messaging Content Compliance
Businesses must comply with content rules that prohibit messages containing SHAFT content—sex, hate, alcohol, firearms, and tobacco (with limited exceptions for age-verified industries). Clear opt-in consent must be obtained before sending messages, and every message must include an opt-out method (e.g., "Reply STOP to unsubscribe"). Transparency about frequency and a visible link to your privacy policy and terms of service are required to build and retain consumer trust.
E. Enforcement and Penalties
Non-compliance can result in financial penalties, such as fines issued by carriers or The Campaign Registry. In addition, carriers may block or throttle message delivery for violating content rules or failing to register. Maintaining good messaging practices and ongoing monitoring is critical to avoid disruptions and penalties.
III. Compliance for Phone Marketing (Voice Calls)
A. TCPA (Telephone Consumer Protection Act)
The TCPA is the cornerstone of voice marketing regulation in the U.S. It mandates that businesses obtain prior express written consent before placing marketing calls to consumers. It also restricts calls to designated hours (typically between 8 a.m. and 9 p.m. local time) and prohibits contacting individuals on the National Do Not Call (DNC) Registry unless prior consent is given.
B. Caller ID Regulations
All marketing calls must display accurate caller ID information. The implementation of STIR/SHAKEN protocols by telecom carriers helps prevent robocalls and caller ID spoofing. These technologies authenticate caller identity, ensuring that recipients can verify the legitimacy of incoming calls. Businesses that fail to comply may experience high call blocking rates or regulatory scrutiny.
C. Recordkeeping and Audits
Maintaining detailed records of consent—such as time-stamped opt-in forms, call recordings, and campaign logs—is essential. Businesses should also implement internal audit procedures to review marketing practices, track consumer complaints, and ensure adherence to applicable laws.
IV. Compliance for Email Marketing
A. CAN-SPAM Act Requirements
Under the CAN-SPAM Act, marketing emails must clearly identify the sender and include accurate subject lines that reflect the content of the message. An unsubscribe option must be easily accessible in every email, and opt-out requests must be honored within 10 business days. Failing to comply can result in significant fines and damage to sender reputation.
B. GDPR and Other Privacy Regulations
For businesses operating in or marketing to the EU and other regions with strict data laws, the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) applies. This requires explicit, informed consent for data collection and email marketing. Businesses must also allow users to access, correct, or delete their data upon request and maintain clean, permission-based email lists.
C. Technical Standards
To improve deliverability and reduce spam scores, businesses should implement email authentication protocols such as SPF, DKIM, and DMARC. These prevent email spoofing and protect your brand from phishing attacks. Maintaining a healthy sender reputation through proper list hygiene and engagement practices is crucial for long-term success.
V. Best Practices for All Channels
Regardless of channel, effective compliance begins with centralized consent management—tracking and storing opt-ins across platforms. Maintain consistent branding and message tone to build trust and avoid consumer confusion. Ensure opt-outs are synchronized across all marketing platforms to respect customer preferences and reduce legal risk.
VI. Conclusion
In summary, compliance with 10DLC, phone, and email marketing regulations is critical for sustainable and lawful customer engagement. Businesses must stay current with evolving regulations, monitor campaign performance, and train staff on best practices. Chesapeake Capital Group is here to provide expert guidance and ensure your marketing operations remain compliant and effective. Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your compliance needs.
Chesapeake Capital Group strictly adheres to all regulations and best practices outlined in this guide. We are committed to operating with integrity and always act in the best interests of our consumers. By upholding these standards, we protect both our customers and our reputation as a trusted business partner.