Decreased deliverability for text messages containing short URLs

Update timeline

1. identified Jun 10, 2021, 07:51 PM UTC

   Text messages containing our shortened https://onechurch.page.link URL are currently being blocked by network carriers. We are working with them to resolve the issue. In the meantime, system generated text messages will not have shortened URLs until the issue is resolved (i.e. the full URL will be sent instead) so that deliverability is not affected. If you have any automatic text messages (such as keywords) that use shortened URLs, we recommend replacing them with the full URL in the meantime.

2. identified Jul 02, 2021, 08:53 PM UTC

   We are continuing to work on a fix for this issue.

3. resolved Jul 09, 2021, 06:41 PM UTC

   Recently, network carriers (Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, etc.) have become much more strict in regards to what SMS traffic they allow to be delivered in an effort to protect their customers from unwanted messages. As a result, they now block any text messages which include a shortened URL as it hides the designation of the link. They specifically want to insure the recipient always knows where a link goes to. Shortened URLs hide this and so they block it. Please review any automated outgoing text messages you have set up for shortened URLs (such as onechurch.page.link, bit.ly, etc) and replace them with the full URL instead. Otherwise, they likely will not be delivered to the recipient. Unfortunately, this is outside of our control as it is the network carriers that are enforcing this. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to reach out to One Church support.