STOP is a recognized way to revoke consent for covered calls and texts. Senders generally must honor a valid revocation within a reasonable time not exceeding ten business days, and one nonpromotional confirmation text may be permitted.
What happens after you reply STOP
Current federal rules treat STOP, QUIT, END, REVOKE, OPT OUT, CANCEL, and UNSUBSCRIBE as reasonable methods of revoking consent when sent in reply to an incoming text. Other plain-language replies may also count when a reasonable person would understand them as a request to stop.
One confirmation may be allowed
A sender may transmit one message that only confirms the revocation and contains no marketing content. A confirmation sent within five minutes is presumed to fall within the consumer’s prior consent. If the sender needs clarification about multiple message categories, additional limits apply.
Why timing and content matter
Promotional messages that continue after the permitted processing period may be important evidence, but the legal analysis still depends on consent, sender identity, message purpose, exceptions, and proof connecting the messages to the responsible entity.
Capture the complete thread
- Screenshot the messages leading up to the opt-out.
- Show the STOP reply with its date and time.
- Preserve any confirmation response.
- Capture every later promotional message and timestamp.
- Save the sender number, links, company names, and offer wording.
- Keep the original thread on the device whenever possible.