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SMS Opt-in/Opt-out Policy

SMS Opt-in/Opt-out Policy

Effective Date: August 4, 2025
Company: Thunderstruck Media LLC & Distinctly Montana Magazine

Opt-In Methods

We obtain express written consent before sending SMS messages through:

1. Web Forms

  • Clear disclosure of SMS program
  • Checkbox confirmation (not pre-checked)
  • Terms and conditions link
  • Age verification (13+ with parental consent, 18+ for independent consent)

2. Text-to-Join

  • Text keywords (START, YES, SUBSCRIBE) to 406-600-7660
  • Receive confirmation message with program details

3. Point of Sale

  • Written consent on order forms
  • Verbal consent with written confirmation

4. Customer Service

  • Explicit consent during support interactions
  • Confirmation message sent

Opt-In Requirements

All opt-ins include:

  • Clear program description
  • Message frequency disclosure (up to 10 msgs/month)
  • "Message and data rates may apply" notice
  • Opt-out instructions
  • Link to Terms & Conditions
  • SHAFT compliance notice (no Sex, Hate, Alcohol, Firearms, Tobacco content)

Double Opt-In

We send a confirmation message for all new opt-ins: "Welcome to Distinctly Montana alerts! Msg frequency varies. Msg & data rates may apply. Reply STOP to cancel, HELP for help. No SHAFT content."

Quiet Hours

Messages are only sent between 8:00 AM and 9:00 PM recipient's local time. No exceptions, including customer-initiated conversations outside these hours.

Consent Reconfirmation

We reconfirm consent for subscribers who haven't engaged in 18 months:

  • Send reconfirmation request
  • No response = removed from list
  • Protects against stale consent claims

Opt-Out Methods

1. Text Message

  • Text STOP, UNSUBSCRIBE, CANCEL, END, or QUIT to 406-600-7660
  • Processed immediately (within 10 seconds)
  • Confirmation sent: "You've been unsubscribed from Distinctly Montana alerts. Reply START to rejoin."

2. Customer Service

3. Web Portal

  • Unsubscribe link in account settings
  • Immediate processing

Opt-Out Compliance

  • Opt-outs processed within 10 seconds
  • Apply to all SMS programs unless user specifies
  • No further messages except one-time confirmation
  • Maintained in permanent suppression list
  • Opt-outs never expire

Re-Opt-In

After opt-out:

  • Requires new express consent
  • Cannot be assumed from other actions
  • Previous opt-out date recorded
  • Must follow all original opt-in requirements

Record Keeping

We maintain for minimum 10 years:

  • Opt-in date, time, and method
  • Consent evidence (screenshots, forms, recordings)
  • IP address and phone number
  • Opt-out requests and dates
  • All message history
  • Reconfirmation attempts and responses

Legal Compliance

Records kept for:

  • 4 years minimum per TCPA requirements
  • 10 years for business records
  • Longer if required by law or litigation hold

Sharing Opt-Out Requests

We honor opt-outs across:

  • All Thunderstruck Media brands and services
  • Distinctly Montana communications
  • Any future services we may offer

Emergency Exception

Opt-out does not apply to:

  • Court-ordered communications
  • Legal notices required by law
  • Account security alerts (if applicable)

Contact

Questions about opt-in/opt-out:

  • Text: HELP to 406-600-7660
  • Email: [email protected]
  • Call: 406-600-7660
  • Mail: 280 W Kagy Blvd, STE D-286, Bozeman, MT 59715