Overview
As of January 1, 2024, T-Mobile enforces fines for SMS violations. These apply across all number types: Short Code, Toll-Free, and 10DLC. Fines are billed per incident and vary based on severity.
Violation Tiers and Fines
| Tier | Violation Type | Fine per Incident |
| 1 | Phishing, smishing, social engineering | $2,000 |
| 2 | Illegal content (e.g., marijuana) | $1,000 |
| 3 | General violations (e.g., SHAFT, age gating) | $500 |
What These Mean
Tier 1: Tricking recipients into revealing private info
Tier 2: Content not federally legal (marijuana, unauthorized prescriptions, adult services)
Tier 3: Includes messages with:
- Sexual content
- Hate speech
- Alcohol or firearms (without age gating)
- Tobacco (must meet age requirements)
- Any failure to follow age verification or carrier rules
Why It Matters
Too many violations can get your number suspended or banned from the T-Mobile network. Review your messaging regularly and check it against T-Mobile’s Code of Conduct.
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