Let’s be honest: no one likes spam texts. Not your customers, not the carriers, and definitely not your brand’s reputation. In fact, 76% of adults in the U.S. say they’ve felt irritated or frustrated by unsolicited texts.
That’s a big deal, especially when one wrong word in your SMS can trip spam filters or, worse, violate regulations.
This guide is your go-to for sending messages the right way. We’ll walk you through what qualifies as spam, what you need to watch for legally, and the long list of spam trigger words your business should avoid. Consider it your SMS compliance recipe—with zero canned ham.
What Counts as SMS Spam (and What Doesn’t)
In simple terms, SMS spam is any unsolicited marketing text message, a message someone didn’t ask for or consent to that promotes a product or service.
Messages like appointment reminders or payment confirmations? Those are typically fine. These are called transactional texts, not promotional ones. But once your message includes a call to action, an offer, or a sales pitch, it falls into the marketing category and must follow strict compliance rules.
Why Compliance Isn’t Optional
Failing to comply with SMS marketing laws can result in steep fines, carrier bans, and lasting damage to your brand. But it’s not just about staying out of trouble, it’s about doing business the right way.
RevText supports your compliance with built-in tools, clear opt-in processes, and expert guidance every step of the way.
Spam Rules to Know Before You Hit “Send”
Here are some must-know rules to keep your SMS campaigns compliant:
Check Regulations by Region
Different countries (and even U.S. states) have different texting laws. RevText ensures your campaigns respect regional regulations, from TCPA in the U.S. to GDPR in the EU.
Always Get Consent
You need express permission to send texts. RevText makes it easy to collect and track opt-ins using sign-up forms, keywords, or QR codes and stores consent records to protect your business.
Identify Yourself
Never leave a contact wondering who you are. Use your business name in the message or sender ID so your texts are instantly recognizable.
Make Opt-Out Easy
Every marketing SMS should include a simple way to unsubscribe like “Reply STOP to opt out.” RevText automates this for you, instantly removing opt-outs from your contact list.
SMS Campaign Tips That Keep You Compliant
- Avoid pre-checked boxes in your web forms. Use clear, active consent.
- Limit special characters and avoid messages that look too flashy (e.g., “WIN $$$ TODAY!!!”).
- Personalize your content. Spammy messages are often repetitive and generic. RevText lets you personalize with names, appointment dates, and more.
100+ Words That Can Trigger Spam Filters
Here’s the list you came for. While using these words doesn’t automatically label your message as spam, using several of them, especially in combination, can hurt deliverability.
Discounts & Offers
Free trial, Free money, Free gift, Save big money, $$$, Best price, Cash bonus, Cheap, Billions
Urgency & Pushy CTAs
Act now, Buy now, Click here, Apply now, Must-have, Save now, Urgent, Act fast, Limited time, Don’t delete
Financial Promises
Fast cash, Extra income, Make money, Be your own boss, Instant cash, Work from home, Million dollars, Get out of debt
Lotteries & Prizes
Win big, Jackpot, You are a winner, Lottery, Cash prize
Scarcity Triggers
Almost sold out, Time-sensitive, While supplies last, Limited availability, Act quickly
Over-the-Top Savings
Unbelievable savings, Massive discount, Mega savings, Insane value, Huge value
VIP & Exclusivity
VIP access, Exclusive offer, Premium deal, Members only, Invitation only
Trust-Building Gimmicks
Guaranteed quality, Verified, Certified, Trusted, Proven, Reputable
Tricky Wording
No catch, No fees, No questions asked, Cancel anytime, Not spam, See for yourself
Other Common Spam Flags
Check or money order, Multi-level marketing, Debt, Credit card offers, Remove wrinkles, Viagra, Free access, Trial
How RevText Helps You Stay Out of Trouble
Here’s how RevText keeps your campaigns safe and spam-free:
- Built-in opt-out automation (no manual cleanup needed)
- Consent-based contact tools (sign-up forms, keywords, and QR codes)
- Message review support from real humans when you need it
- A2P 10DLC registration handled for you
- Smart sending options so you time it right
Final Thoughts
No business sets out to spam people but mistakes happen when you don’t know the rules.
With RevText, you don’t have to figure it out on your own. From the words you choose to how you gather subscribers, we’ve got your back.
If you’re ready to run better campaigns that connect without getting flagged, start your journey with RevText.
Want support on your next campaign? Visit revtext.io and get started today.
