SMS Consent — Accountability Partner SMS

Shielded by Grace operates a single defined SMS program called Accountability Partner SMS. This page describes how a person becomes a recipient of these messages, what messages we send, and how to opt out.

How consent is obtained

Consent is given by the handset owner — the person who will actually receive the messages — through an SMS reply.

1. A Shielded by Grace user, inside the mobile app, invites someone they want as their accountability partner by entering that person's mobile number.
2. Twilio sends one transactional invitation SMS to that number. The invitation identifies the user who invited them, explains the program in plain language, and asks the recipient to reply YES to confirm.
3. The invitation includes the full required disclosures: message frequency, the STOP and HELP keywords, and a notice that message and data rates may apply.
4. No further messages are sent to that number unless the recipient replies YES. A YES reply is the consent. If the recipient does not reply YES, or replies anything else, the conversation ends there.
5. On a YES reply, Shielded by Grace sends a single confirmation SMS and the partner is enrolled in the program.

Consent is optional and is not a condition of using Shielded by Grace.

What messages the program covers

The Accountability Partner SMS program includes only the following message types:

• Invitation (one per invite). The first contact, describing the program and asking the recipient to reply YES.
• YES confirmation (one per enrollment). Sent after the partner replies YES, confirming they are enrolled and reminding them how to opt out.
• Panic alerts. Sent only to partners who have already replied YES, when the inviting user presses the in-app panic button. The alert tells the partner their friend has reached out for support so they can check in.

We do not send marketing, promotional, transactional-commerce, or third-party messages of any kind on this number.

Message frequency

Message frequency varies based on the inviting user's activity. Most weeks have fewer than 1 message. Frequency may increase during panic events.

How partners opt out

Partners can reply STOP at any time to any message from Shielded by Grace to opt out of all future SMS. Replying STOP halts all messages immediately. Replying HELP returns a support message with contact information.

Costs

Message and data rates may apply. Shielded by Grace does not charge for messages, but your wireless carrier may.

Contact

For questions about this SMS program, contact privacy@shieldedbygrace.com. See also our Privacy Policy and Terms of Service.