How to Legally Stop Digicel and Flow from Sending Spam Texts i...
Tired of waking up to three promotional text messages from your network provider every morning? There is a legally binding hidden code that forces them to st...
If you live in Jamaica and own a smartphone, you know the struggle: constant promotional text messages from your telecom provider. Whether it's Digicel blasting you about a weekend "Shake to Win" promo or Flow pushing a new data plan, the spam can be relentless and annoying.
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The Data Protection Act of Jamaica
What most people don't realize is that under the newly enforced Jamaican Data Protection Act (DPA), you have the legal right to completely opt out of direct marketing. The telecom companies are legally required to provide a mechanism for you to stop these messages, but they don't exactly advertise it.
The Hidden USSD Codes
You don't need to call customer care and wait on hold for an hour. You can use hidden USSD codes right on your keypad to immediately block marketing SMS from the network level.
For Digicel Customers:
Simply open your phone dialer and dial *147#. This brings up the main menu. Navigate to "My Account" and look for the "Manage Preferences" or "Opt Out" section. Alternatively, you can text the word STOP to 137. By law, they must process this request within 48 hours.
For Flow Customers:
Flow has a direct shortcode for this. Dial *129# and follow the prompts to "Account Services" -> "Marketing Preferences" to turn off promotional SMS. You can also send the word STOP or QUIT to their promotional shortcodes.
What if they don't stop?
If you opt out and they continue to send you marketing messages, they are in violation of the DPA. You can file a formal complaint with the Office of the Information Commissioner (OIC) or the Office of Utilities Regulation (OUR). Know your rights and take back control of your inbox!
Need help? Email us at admin@howjamaica.com.