Mongolia SMS Compliance: Essential Guidelines and Best Practices
When launching an SMS campaign in Mongolia, understanding local regulations and limitations is crucial for effective delivery and compliance. This guide covers key aspects of SMS communication in Mongolia, including two-way SMS support, number portability, message length, and compliance best practices.
Key Features of SMS in Mongolia
Two-way SMS Support
Two-way SMS is not supported in Mongolia. Users cannot reply to SMS messages, preventing businesses from engaging in two-way communication via SMS. Consider alternatives like web-based chat or email if your business model requires interaction.
Number Portability
Number portability is not available in Mongolia, meaning users cannot transfer their mobile numbers between providers. This is vital for managing customer databases or planning long-term SMS campaigns reliant on consistent numbers.
Concatenated Message Support
Mongolia supports concatenated SMS, allowing longer messages split into segments and reassembled on the recipient's device. Note that this feature may vary based on sender ID types and character encoding.
Message Length
Message length depends on encoding. Exceeding the character limit results in messages split into segments, potentially incurring extra costs and delivery in parts. Keep this in mind when crafting messages.
MMS Support
MMS is not supported in Mongolia. Multimedia content like images and videos converts to SMS with an embedded URL. Recipients must click the URL to view content.
Sending SMS to Landline Numbers
Sending SMS to landlines in Mongolia is not supported. Attempts result in a 400 error code from the Sent REST API, with no delivery or charges for undelivered messages.
Compliance Considerations
To ensure compliance with local regulations, consulting with legal counsel is strongly recommended. Here are some best practices:
Obtain Opt-In Consent: Secure explicit opt-in consent from users before sending communications, especially for marketing.
Respect Local Time Zones: Send SMS messages during the recipient's daytime hours unless urgent.
Support STOP/HELP Messages: Enable HELP/STOP messages in the recipient's local language for managing communication preferences.
Respect Do-Not-Call Registries: Avoid contacting users on do-not-call or do-not-disturb lists.
By adhering to these practices and understanding local guidelines, your SMS campaigns in Mongolia can be both effective and compliant.
FAQs
Is two-way SMS supported in Mongolia?
No, two-way SMS is not supported. Businesses cannot engage in back-and-forth communication with users via SMS.
Can SMS be sent to landline numbers in Mongolia?
No, SMS cannot be sent to landline numbers in Mongolia. Attempts result in a 400 error code from the Sent REST API, with no delivery.
What are the compliance considerations for sending SMS in Mongolia?
Consult legal counsel and follow best practices like obtaining opt-in consent, respecting time zones, and supporting STOP/HELP messages to ensure compliance.
By following these guidelines, you can optimize your SMS campaigns in Mongolia and avoid potential legal issues. For more information, visit the official Mongolian telecommunications authority for the latest updates on regulations.