This Policy describes how we communicate via SMS text message communication. “Providia” refers to Providia Partners, LLC and its affiliates, and as “we,” and/or “us.”
Any person or entity to whom Providia Partners provides or provided services or products is a “client.” Prospects who share their phone numbers with us are also treated as clients under the Privacy Policy.
Providia intends to comply with the various laws, regulations, and guidelines applicable to our communication with clients via SMS text message communications, including, but limited to:
The Telephone Consumer Protection Act of 1991. The TCPA is the fundamental law that governs phone communication. It protects consumers from unwanted calls, texts, faxes, and more. To ensure TCPA compliance, we follow these rules:
Cellular Telecommunications Industry Association guidelines. The CTIA guidelines and best practices exist to supply industry standards to maintain customers’ trust in the telecom industry. The main goal is to ensure parties exchange wanted and compliant text messages as outlined in the TCPA.
Providia’s Uses of SMS Text Messages
Providia uses SMS text message communication for conversation and informational purposes only, and we will not use SMS text messaging for any promotional or marketing purposes.
Informational messaging. Sometimes called transactional messages, these are non-promotional text messages that provide clients with important information. Some common examples include appointment reminders, welcome texts, order updates, and flight delay alerts.
These messages require prior express consent. Clients must know they agree to get informational messages and alerts from Provida. Providia recognizes informational messages may include a call-to-action, which may be considered promotional. Accordingly, express consent is requested from customers.
Conversational messaging. This is defined as back-and-forth texting in real-time. For this message type, a client must initiate a text conversation with Providia, and Providia may ONLY reply with messages related to their inquiry. This messaging type only needs implied consent because clients expect to have a back-and-forth conversation about the topic.
A client may give consent to receive SMS text message communication from Providia in one of the following ways:
1. Implied consent
This level of consent is an agreement given by a person’s action. In texting, it means the customer directly texts Providia first. Implied consent can only be used for conversational messaging.
2. Prior express consent
Prior express consent is an agreement, written or oral, clearly indicating consent to be contacted via text in the future. Consent can be given by filling out a form, checking a box, or verbally. Informational texts like appointment reminders need prior express consent.
3. Express written consent
Express written consent is defined as permission a client grants Providia to receive promotional texts or texts sharing personal information. This type of consent can be obtained digitally or in writing. For example, clients may sign a form, check a box online, or text in a keyword to subscribe to specific messages. Providia will disclose to Client specifics about the types of messages that will be sent.
In order to confirm compliance, Providia’s opt-in message for express written consent shall include:
· Business name
· Message type (ex: marketing, informational, automated)
· Message frequency
· Opt-out instructions
· Help instructions
· Links to privacy and terms/conditions
· Message data and frequency disclosure
Below is an example of Providia’s opt-in message:
By signing up via text, you agree to receive text messages from Providia at this cell phone number. Consent is not a condition of service. Reply HELP for help or STOP to cancel. Message frequency varies. Message and data rates may apply. View our terms and privacy here: [link].
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