Getting unexpected text messages from unfamiliar numbers can be confusing and concerning. If you’ve received a message from 80837, you’re likely wondering whether it’s legitimate, spam, or something you signed up for and forgot about. This comprehensive guide will help you understand everything about the 80837 short code, how it works, and what you should do if you receive messages from this number.
Understanding 80837 SMS Short Code
80837 is a short code number. Short codes are 4, 5, or 6 digit long numbers that companies can use to send text messages to consumers. Unlike regular phone numbers, short codes are specifically designed for high-volume text messaging campaigns and automated customer communications.
The 80837 short code is primarily associated with My Benefits Club (MBC), where users can text “JOIN” to 80837 to signup for recurring updates and alerts. This service provides subscribers with notifications about various benefits, deals, and promotional offers through SMS messaging.
Short codes like 80837 are regulated by mobile carriers and must follow strict compliance guidelines. Companies cannot simply start using any short code they want; they must lease these numbers through official channels and adhere to consumer protection regulations.
How My Benefits Club Uses 80837
My Benefits Club operates the 80837 short code as part of their mobile marketing strategy. A user may sign up to The Service by texting “JOIN” to 80837. Message and data rates may apply. Recurring messages. The service is designed to keep subscribers informed about available benefits and exclusive offers.
When you text JOIN to this number, you’re essentially subscribing to their SMS marketing list. The company sends periodic messages containing information about discounts, special promotions, and benefit opportunities that might interest their subscribers.
It’s important to note that The Company does not charge you to participate in The Service. However, message and data rates may apply from your mobile carrier. This means while the service itself is free, your carrier might charge standard text messaging rates.
Why You Might Receive Messages From 80837
There are several reasons why you might receive text messages from 80837:
Intentional Subscription: You or someone with access to your phone may have texted “JOIN” to 80837, either deliberately or accidentally. This is the most common reason people receive messages from this short code.
Promotional Sign-ups: Sometimes when signing up for services, websites, or completing online forms, there might be pre-checked boxes that automatically subscribe you to SMS marketing lists. You might have unknowingly agreed to receive messages from My Benefits Club.
Shared Phone Numbers: If you recently got a new phone number, the previous owner might have been subscribed to this service. In such cases, you’ll continue receiving messages until you unsubscribe.
Data Sharing: Some companies share customer information with partner organizations. If you’ve provided your phone number to related businesses, they might have shared it with My Benefits Club.
How to Stop Messages From 80837
If you’re receiving unwanted messages from 80837, stopping them is straightforward. Reply HELP for help, STOP to stop receiving future messages. This is the standard method for unsubscribing from SMS marketing campaigns.
Simply reply with the word “STOP” to any message you receive from 80837. You should receive a confirmation message acknowledging your unsubscribe request. After this, you shouldn’t receive any more messages from this short code.
If you continue receiving messages after sending STOP, contact your mobile carrier for assistance. They can help block the number or investigate potential issues with the unsubscribe process.
SMS Short Code Safety and Best Practices
While 80837 appears to be a legitimate marketing short code, it’s always wise to exercise caution with text messages. Here are some safety tips:
Verify Before Clicking: Never click links in text messages unless you’re absolutely certain about the sender’s legitimacy. Even legitimate services can be spoofed by scammers.
Don’t Share Personal Information: Legitimate SMS marketing services rarely ask for sensitive information like Social Security numbers, bank details, or passwords through text messages.
Keep Records: Screenshot important messages and keep track of when you subscribe to or unsubscribe from SMS services. This helps if you need to resolve issues later.
Report Suspicious Activity: If you receive messages that seem fraudulent or suspicious, report them to your carrier and the Federal Trade Commission.
Understanding SMS Marketing Regulations
Companies using short codes like 80837 must comply with federal regulations, including the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA). These regulations require businesses to obtain explicit consent before sending marketing messages and provide clear opt-out mechanisms.
Message and data rates may apply is a standard disclaimer that legitimate SMS marketing services include in their communications. This transparency helps consumers understand potential costs associated with receiving messages.
The regulations also require companies to honor unsubscribe requests promptly, typically within 10 business days, though most legitimate services process these requests immediately.
The 80837 text message short code is primarily used by My Benefits Club for legitimate SMS marketing purposes. If you’re receiving messages from this number, you likely subscribed at some point, either intentionally or inadvertently. The good news is that stopping these messages is simple – just reply “STOP” to any message from 80837.
Remember to always be cautious with text messages from unfamiliar numbers, even when they appear legitimate. When in doubt, verify the sender’s identity before taking any action, and never hesitate to unsubscribe from services you don’t remember joining or no longer want to receive.