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🚫S.H.A.F.T. Censorship in ClickBid Messaging

ClickBid uses Twilio & Bandwidth as its SMS providers. To ensure compliance with mobile carrier regulations, certain topics are strictly prohibited in messages sent from the ClickBid system via phone numbers 855-800-4975 & 844-339-6509

This guide explains what's blocked, why it matters, and how to stay compliant.

📖 What is S.H.A.F.T.?

S.H.A.F.T. stands for:

  • Sex

  • Hate

  • Alcohol

  • Firearms

  • Tobacco

  • Gambling has been added to the list. 

These topics are regulated and censored in SMS communications under CTIA (Cellular Telecommunications Industry Association) guidelines and mobile carrier policies. ClickBid follows these standards without exceptions.

💡 Info: Messages flagged for S.H.A.F.T. violations will be blocked and not delivered to bidders.

✉️ Messages That Are Affected

The following types of texts must comply with S.H.A.F.T. restrictions:

  • Outbid notifications

    • We no longer include the item name in outbid notices. The message will only have the item number. 
      • Example: You have been outbid on item 125. Tap here [link] to bid again on this item

  • Custom mass messaging (via the Text-to-Bid platform)

All message content, including auction item names and descriptions, must avoid S.H.A.F.T. keywords.

❗ Common Censored Words

Avoid using these words in any text message or item description within the ClickBid platform:

🚫 Alcohol-Related Words

  • Wine

  • Whiskey

  • Gin

  • Vodka

  • Rum

  • Tequila

  • Alcohol

  • Beer

🚫 Cannabis or Tobacco Terms

  • CBD

  • Hemp

  • Cannabis

  • Marijuana

  • Cigarette

  • Cigar

  • Vape

  • THC

  • Gummy / Gummies

🚫 Firearms & Hate Speech

  • Gun

  • Rifle

  • Pistol

  • Gay (when used inappropriately — context may be evaluated)

🚫 Gambling

  • Powerball
  • Lottery
  • Texas Holdem
  • Keno
  • Sweepstakes
  • Mega Millions

⚠️ Warning: Even censoring with symbols (e.g., G*N or W**E) may still trigger a block. This list only covers a few examples. We can’t include every word here, but please keep in mind that messages mentioning alcohol, gambling, firearms, hate speech, sex, cannabis, or tobacco may be blocked.

🔗 Avoid These URL Shorteners

Twilio blocks many URL shorteners due to spam risks. Instead, use full URLs or a branded domain.

Do not use:

  • go.to (or the words "go to" in your messages)

  • Bit.ly

  • TinyURL

  • Shorturl.at

  • BL.INK

  • Ow.ly

  • rebrandly

  • short.io

  • cuttly

  • clickmeter

💡 Tip: If you need to shorten URLs, consider using a branded link on your own website or reach out to ClickBid support for guidance.

✅ Best Practices for Safe Messaging

  1. Audit your item titles and descriptions before publishing them.

  2. Avoid prohibited words, even when masked or abbreviated.

  3. Test messages in your admin dashboard or with a sample event.

  4. Use natural, neutral language for auction item names.

  5. Use full URLs to avoid delivery issues.

ℹ️ Info: You can learn more about CTIA rules and Twilio & Bandwidth messaging policies by clicking on the names. 

🧭 Need Help?

If your messages are not sending or you’re unsure if your content violates S.H.A.F.T. guidelines, contact ClickBid Support via help@clickbidonline.com or chat.