Preventing SMS Blocks and Spam Flags

HiFiveStar's system is designed to ensure reliable message delivery. However, external factors like carrier issues or recipient settings can sometimes affect deliverability. This guide will help you understand common issues and provide best practices to ensure your messages reach their intended recipients without any hiccups.

Important Notice: Avoid Repeatedly Resending Messages.

Our messaging provider employs anti-spam measures to protect users and maintain high deliverability rates. Occasionally, messages may be delayed, queued, or blocked if interpreted as spam activity. To maximize message deliverability and avoid potential issues:

Avoid Repeatedly Resending Messages to the Same Number:

• Do Not Resend Immediately: If a message doesn't arrive right away, avoid sending it multiple times to the same recipient.

• Repeated attempts can cause messages to queue up and may trigger messaging providers' anti-spam filters, leading to delays or temporary blocks.

• Instead, send a test message to a different number to check if the issue lies with the original recipient's carrier or device.

• Be Patient: Queued messages will automatically send once any temporary blocks are lifted, so waiting can prevent further complications.

Limit Bulk Sending Frequency:

• Sending a large number of messages in a very short time frame can be flagged by carriers as potential spam.

• Recommendation: Break up large sends into smaller batches with intervals in between.

Review Message Content

• Ensure your messages comply with best practices.

• Avoid using phrases or keywords commonly associated with spam.

Symptoms of Delivery Issues

• Messages remain in 'queued' status for an extended period.

• Messages are not reaching the intended recipients.

Possible Causes

1. Recipient's Carrier Issues

   • Delays, outages, or network congestion with the recipient's mobile carrier may prevent message delivery.

2. Recipient's Device Settings

   • Spam Filters: Some phones automatically filter messages into a spam or blocked folder.

   • Blocked Numbers: The recipient may have settings that block unknown numbers or short codes.

3. Incorrect Phone Number Format

   • Ensure correct phone number format:

     • Starts with "+".

     • Includes the country code.

     • No spaces or special characters.

     • Example: +15551234567

   

   Messages won't reach the recipient if the phone number is incorrectly formatted.

4. Phone Memory or Storage Issues

   • If the recipient's phone is out of storage, new messages may not be received.

5. Messages Flagged as Spam

   • High message volumes or repeated messages to the same number can trigger our messaging provider's anti-spam measures.

   • This may cause messages to be queued or temporarily blocked.

Understanding Messaging Providers' Anti-Spam Measures

Messaging providers (e.g. Twilio, Telnyx, etc.) have anti-spam measures in place to protect users and maintain high deliverability rates. Messages may be delayed or queued if excessive messaging is detected.

How to Avoid Being Flagged by Messaging Providers

• Avoid Repeated Sends to the Same Number:

  • Do not resend messages to the same number in quick succession.

  • Repeated attempts can trigger spam detection systems.

• Limit Bulk Messaging:

  • Spread out large message sends over time.

  • Use smaller batches with intervals between them.

• Review Message Content:

  • Ensure compliance with messaging best practices.

  • Avoid content that may trigger spam filters.

Connect Your Own Twilio or Telnyx Account

If you prefer more control over your messaging, you can connect your own Twilio or Telnyx account to HiFiveStar. This allows you to:

• Benefits of Using Your Own Account:

  • Dedicated Resources: Utilize your own phone numbers and messaging resources.

  • Customized Settings: Configure messaging settings to suit your requirements.

  • Enhanced Control: Monitor your messaging activity directly through your messaging service provider's dashboard.

• How to Connect:

  • Follow our integration guide to link your Twilio/Telnyx account and start sending messages through your own numbers.

CSV File Bulk Sending Instructions

For bulk sending using a CSV file:

Format of the CSV File:

1. First Column: Recipient's name.

2. Second Column: Phone number (with country prefix, starting with "+", and no spaces, e.g., +15551234567).

Important Guidelines:

• No Headers: Do not include headers like "Name" or "Phone Number".

• Entry Limit: Maximum of 100 entries per CSV file.

Conclusion:

In most cases, SMS delivery issues are temporary and related to the recipient’s carrier or device settings. By following these tips, you can ensure smoother delivery. If the issue continues, feel free to reach out to HiFiveStar support for further assistance.

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