Why Are My Messages Being Marked as Spam, and How Can I Prevent This?
Spam filtering for text messages and emails is a common issue that can affect message deliverability. This article explains the causes of messages being marked as spam and provides actionable steps to prevent this from happening.
Causes of Messages Being Marked as Spam
Carrier-Level Filtering: Mobile carriers use spam filters to block unwanted messages. These filters are outside the sender’s control and are based on carrier-specific algorithms.
Device-Specific Spam Settings: Many smartphones, such as iPhones, have built-in spam filters that may route messages to spam folders.
Email Provider Rules: Email providers use algorithms to filter spam based on content, formatting, and engagement history.
General Best Practices for Avoiding Spam
Inform Recipients Proactively: Let customers know in advance that they will receive messages from you. This can be done via a call or voicemail.
Encourage Recipients to Add Your Number to Contacts: This helps improve deliverability by signaling to carriers and devices that your messages are legitimate.
Avoid Spam Triggers in Emails: Refrain from using words like "free," "bonus," or "sale" in subject lines or email bodies. Use clean HTML formatting and write sufficiently detailed messages to avoid being flagged.
Device-Specific Instructions
For iPhone Users
Open the Settings app.
Navigate to Apps → Messages.
Turn off the "Filter Spam" option (or similar spam filtering setting).
Add the sender’s number to the Contacts list to improve deliverability.
For Android Users
While specific steps may vary by device, Android users can typically:
Open the Messages app.
Check the spam or junk folder for messages.
Mark the message as "Not Spam" or move it to the main inbox.
Add the sender’s number to the Contacts list.
Carrier-Level Considerations
Spam filtering at the carrier level is determined by the carrier’s systems and cannot be directly controlled by the sender. To improve deliverability:
Encourage recipients to add your number to their contacts.
Avoid sending messages that resemble spam, such as those with excessive special characters or very short content.
Email-Specific Recommendations
To reduce the likelihood of emails being marked as spam:
Avoid using "spam trigger" words in the subject or body.
Use clean and professional HTML formatting.
Write sufficiently detailed emails (at least 500 characters).
Maintain good engagement by sending relevant content that recipients are likely to open and read.
Conclusion
By understanding the causes of spam filtering and following these best practices, you can significantly improve the deliverability of your messages. Whether you’re sending text messages or emails, proactive communication with recipients and adherence to these guidelines will help ensure your messages reach their intended audience.