Mobile carriers automatically scan text messages for spam-like patterns to help protect recipients from unwanted or fraudulent messages. Because of this, even legitimate school or district communications can sometimes be filtered, blocked, or marked as spam if the message content triggers carrier filters.
Following the best practices below can help improve deliverability, reduce the likelihood of carrier filtering, and increase the chances that your messages successfully reach recipients.
Keep Links Minimal | Recipients are less likely to report messages as spam when they immediately recognize who the message is from. ✅ Best practices:
Better Example: |
Avoid Common Spam Trigger Phrases | Certain words and phrases are commonly associated with spam or phishing campaigns and may increase filtering risk. 🚫 Avoid phrases such as:
If possible, use more natural and conversational language instead. Messages designed to create panic or urgency are more likely to be filtered. |
Use Normal Formatting | Messages that look overly promotional or aggressive are more likely to be flagged. 🚫 Avoid:
Using standard sentence formatting helps messages appear more trustworthy to carrier systems. |
Avoid Restricted or Sensitive Content | Carriers apply stricter filtering to certain types of content, sometimes referred to as “SHAFT” categories: 🚫 Avoid:
Even casual mentions — such as fundraising events involving alcohol — can sometimes trigger filtering. |
Do Not Request Sensitive Personal Information | Avoid asking recipients to send sensitive information through SMS, including: 🚫 Avoid:
Messages requesting personal or financial information are commonly flagged as phishing attempts. |
Use Emojis Sparingly | A few emojis are usually fine, but excessive emoji use can increase spam scores. ✅ Best practices:
|
Write Naturally | Messages that sound conversational, clear, and informative generally perform better than messages that sound promotional or automated. ✅ Best practices:
|
Following these guidelines can help create a more consistent and trusted communication experience for your recipients. As carrier filtering rules continue to evolve, we recommend reviewing message content regularly and avoiding patterns that may appear overly promotional, misleading, or spam-like.