SMS Opt-In Process
This document describes the two processes by which end users opt in to receive SMS messages through services operated by Ghost Automation LLC: an in-app opt-in and an in-store opt-in at the register. It is provided as standalone reference documentation for carrier and regulatory review.
End users opt in through one of two paths, both documented below:
- In-app: the user downloads the retailer's app via web browser and opts in during account creation.
- In-store: a cashier offers enrollment at the register and reads a spoken disclosure before collecting the customer's number.
Path 1 — In-app opt-in
Opt-in is an explicit, user-initiated action that occurs in-app during account creation. The opt-in is a self-service process and is not a condition of purchase.
The flow is as follows:
- A user downloads the mobile application operated by Ghost Automation and opens it for the first time.
- The user is taken to a phone-number-entry screen titled "What's your number?" (shown below).
- The user enters their mobile phone number in the input field.
- Below the phone number input, the user sees a "Send Code" button and a consent disclosure stating the terms of the SMS program.
- The user taps "Send Code" to explicitly request a one-time verification code by SMS. This tap is the affirmative consent action.
- The opt-in event is logged in our system with a timestamp and the user identifier.
The opt-in screen
The following screenshot shows the actual opt-in screen the user sees. The phone number input field, the "Send Code" button, and the full consent disclosure are all visible on a single screen.
The consent disclosure
The following disclosure is displayed on-screen, directly below the "Send Code" button. By tapping "Send Code," the user agrees to the following terms:
Program details
- Program name: Ghost Automation customer authentication and account notifications.
- Message types: One-time verification codes (OTP) and transactional account notifications related to user activity within the application.
- Message frequency: Recurring messages, typically 1–3 messages per signup or transaction. Frequency varies by the user's activity within the application.
- Message and data rates: Standard message and data rates from the user's wireless carrier apply. Ghost Automation does not charge for SMS messages.
- To get help: Reply HELP to any message for support information.
- To stop receiving messages: Reply STOP to any message. The user will receive one final confirmation that they have been unsubscribed, after which no further SMS messages will be sent from the program.
- Consent is not a condition of purchase. Users may use the application without opting in to SMS.
Path 2 — In-store opt-in (at the register)
Customers can also opt in at the point of sale. When a cashier creates a customer profile, they offer enrollment in the text rewards program and read the customer a spoken disclosure before collecting any phone number. The customer must verbally agree before the cashier enters the number. Consent is not a condition of purchase.
Every register displays the printed disclosure card shown below. The cashier reads the highlighted script word for word; the card also lists the rules staff must follow before entering a number.
Text Rewards · Staff Disclosure
Before you sign a customer up for texts
Read this aloud, word for word, before entering any phone number into the rewards program.
Say this to the customer
“Would you like to join our text rewards program? We’ll send a verification code and updates about your points and rewards. Message and data rates may apply, message frequency varies, and you can reply STOP anytime to cancel. Joining isn’t required to make a purchase — can I sign you up?”
Only enter their number if…
- The customer says yes after hearing the message above.
- You read the disclosure before collecting the number, not after.
- You never sign someone up without asking, even repeat customers.
- If they decline, that’s fine — complete the sale normally.
HELP for help, anytime.
In-store program details
- Opt-in action: the customer verbally consents after hearing the spoken disclosure, and the cashier then enters the phone number into the rewards system. The opt-in event is logged with a timestamp.
- Message types: a one-time verification code (OTP) followed by transactional notifications about loyalty points, rewards, and tier changes.
- Message frequency: recurring, typically 1–3 messages per signup or transaction; frequency varies by activity.
- Message and data rates: standard carrier rates apply. Ghost Automation does not charge for SMS.
- To stop: reply STOP to any message to unsubscribe; reply HELP for help.
- Consent is not a condition of purchase. Declining does not affect the customer’s ability to buy.
Document owner: Ghost Automation LLC
Document purpose: Carrier and regulatory review reference for A2P 10DLC campaign verification.
Contact: kalub@ghostautomation.tech