AT&T Code of Conduct Compliance

AT&T Messaging Policy Framework

Code of Conduct enforcement and machine learning-based compliance monitoring

AT&T enforces 10DLC registration via TCR and requires all senders to accept the AT&T Code of Conduct governing business messaging practices. The carrier deploys real-time machine learning algorithms to detect spam patterns, phishing attempts, and policy violations. Enforcement follows a graduated response system from warning notifications through permanent blocklisting based on violation severity and frequency.

Code of Conduct Required

All business senders must accept AT&T's Code of Conduct during 10DLC registration process. Material breach triggers immediate action.

ML-Based Detection

Machine learning models analyze message patterns, sender behavior, and subscriber engagement for spam classification.

Graduated Response

Warning → throttling → suspension → permanent blocklist progression based on violation type and severity.

AT&T's Enforcement Priorities

Subscriber Protection: Elevated focus on subscriber complaint rates; campaigns with >0.1% spam report rate trigger immediate review

Phishing Prevention: Sophisticated ML models detect URL patterns, sender spoofing, and social engineering tactics in real-time

Financial Services Scrutiny: Crypto/NFT promotions, payday loans, and get-rich-quick schemes face enhanced compliance review

Cannabis Zero Tolerance: Automatic campaign suspension for any cannabis/CBD/hemp-related messaging

Key Differentiators vs Other Carriers

Behavioral Analysis Focus: AT&T emphasizes pattern detection over content filtering; sudden volume spikes trigger flags
Complaint-Driven Enforcement: Higher subscriber complaint threshold tolerance vs T-Mobile/Verizon before action
Phishing Simulation Accommodation: Security testing campaigns allowed with pre-approval process
Business Verification Preference: Accepts Equifax verification as DUNS alternative for brand vetting

AT&T Code of Conduct Requirements

Mandatory compliance standards for all business messaging campaigns

Core Code of Conduct Principles

Consent & Opt-In

• Express written consent required for marketing
• Clear disclosure of message frequency
• Opt-out mechanism in every message
• Automated STOP processing <5 seconds
• Consent not conditioned on purchase

Prohibited Content

• Cannabis/CBD/hemp products
• Illegal goods or services
• Fraudulent or deceptive offers
• Hate speech or harassment
• Adult content or services

Brand Integrity

• Truthful brand identification in messages
• No sender ID spoofing or impersonation
• Accurate business information in TCR
• Active website matching brand registration
• Transparent business practices

Data Protection

• Subscriber data security and privacy
• No unauthorized data sharing or sale
• TCPA-compliant consent documentation
• Prompt opt-out processing
• Retention compliance (4+ years)

Material Breach Conditions

The following violations constitute material breach of AT&T Code of Conduct and trigger immediate suspension:

Prohibited Content Distribution: Cannabis/CBD, illegal goods, adult content

Fraudulent Messaging: Phishing, scams, deceptive offers, fake urgency

Sender Spoofing: Impersonating other brands or government entities

Mass Spam Distribution: High-volume blasts without valid consent

Opt-Out Violations: Continuing to message after STOP or ignoring opt-out requests

Repeat Policy Violations: Multiple warnings ignored or pattern of non-compliance

Cannabis/CBD/Hemp Strict Prohibition

Zero tolerance policy for all cannabis-related messaging

AT&T Cannabis Policy Overview

AT&T maintains absolute prohibition on cannabis/CBD/hemp messaging regardless of state legalization status or product classification. This policy applies to all text communications including marketing, transactional, and informational messages from dispensaries, CBD retailers, hemp product manufacturers, and related businesses.

Prohibited Products

• Marijuana (recreational or medical)
• CBD oils, tinctures, topicals
• Hemp-derived cannabinoid products
• Delta-8, Delta-9, Delta-10 THC
• Cannabis edibles or beverages
• Vape cartridges or accessories
• Growing equipment or supplies

Prohibited Message Types

• Product promotions or sales offers
• Dispensary location or hours
• Pricing, discounts, loyalty programs
• Order confirmations or delivery updates
• Educational cannabis content
• Event announcements or sponsorships
• Brand awareness or advocacy

Enforcement Actions

• Immediate campaign suspension (no warning)
• Permanent sender phone number blocklist
• Brand-level trust score degradation
• Cross-carrier violation reporting
• No appeal or reinstatement option
• Potential account termination

Common Misconceptions

MYTH: "CBD is legal federally so AT&T should allow it."

REALITY: AT&T policy prohibits CBD regardless of federal legality status. Carrier policies are independent of government regulation.

MYTH: "Medical marijuana messaging should be exempt as healthcare communication."

REALITY: No exceptions for medical vs recreational. All cannabis/CBD/hemp products prohibited equally.

MYTH: "Hemp-derived CBD with <0.3% THC is allowed."

REALITY: Hemp-derived CBD products are explicitly prohibited. THC percentage irrelevant.

AT&T Code of Conduct Compliance Guide