Why was my message blocked?
Second Phone uses an automatic content filter on all outgoing messages. This isn't about monitoring your conversations - it's a requirement from mobile carriers and telecom regulators. If a message triggers the filter, it won't be delivered, and you'll see a notification in the app.
The app cannot view the content of your messages or override carrier filters. Delivery decisions are made by the carriers.
Why does this filter exist?
Mobile carriers enforce strict rules about what content can travel over their networks. The filter is our way of staying compliant and keeping the service running for everyone.
Restrictions may occur on the app's side or the recipient's carrier network.
If a message contains restricted or prohibited content, it may be blocked and not delivered.
What kinds of messages can get blocked?
The most common category is called SHAFT - an industry-standard term covering:
Sex - explicit sexual content or adult services
Hate - hate speech or content targeting people based on identity
Alcohol - promoting alcohol, especially to unverified audiences
Firearms - selling or promoting guns, ammunition, or accessories
Tobacco - cigarettes, vape, e-cigarettes, cigars
Other restricted content includes:
Cannabis / CBD / marijuana: even where legal locally, carriers restrict this
Gambling: promoting gambling or betting services without proper authorization
Spam or mass messaging without permission: sending messages to people who did not agree to receive them
Phishing or fraud: messages that try to trick people into sharing personal or financial information
Malicious links or malware: harmful links, viruses, or software
Impersonation: pretending to be another person, company, or organization
High-risk financial services: payday loans, debt collection, credit repair, or similar offers
For more details, see Sections 5 and 6 of our Terms of Use and our Messaging & Calling Policy.
What happens when a message is blocked?
You'll get a notification that delivery failed. The message is not sent. Depending on the situation:
A single flagged message won't automatically affect your account
Repeated violations can lead to a warning, then temporary or permanent suspension
Serious violations (fraud, spam campaigns) may result in immediate account termination without a refund
To minimize the chances of your messages being flagged or blocked, avoid using language or terms that could be interpreted as spam or inappropriate. Refrain from including links or attachments that may appear suspicious, and familiarize yourself with the app’s and carrier’s messaging policies to ensure compliance.
Think the filter made a mistake?
If your message was about something completely legitimate and got caught anyway, reach out to us via Support or at [email protected]. Include what you were trying to send and we'll review it manually.
If the issue persists, wait 15–20 minutes and try resending the message, as many restrictions are temporary and clear on their own. Additionally, review your message content for terms or patterns that may trigger filtering, such as language commonly associated with spam or policy violations.