SMS Privacy Policy
Southcoast Funeral Service Inc.
1555 Pleasant St, Fall River, MA 02723

1. Introduction
Southcoast Funeral Service Inc. (“we,” “us,” “our”) respects your privacy and is committed to protecting the personal information you provide through our SMS/text messaging service. This SMS Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard information when you enroll to receive funeral-related text communications from us. By opting into our SMS service, you consent to the practices described in this policy and acknowledge that all text communications are strictly related to funeral services, arrangements, and updates concerning loved ones.

2. Information We Collect
When you subscribe to our SMS/text message service or communicate with us by text, we may collect:
- Your mobile phone number
- Your name, if provided
- Relationship to the deceased, if applicable
- Communication preferences and consent records
- Information you voluntarily provide in your messages (for example, service decisions or requests)
- Message delivery and interaction data (such as timestamps and logs)
We do not collect Social Security numbers, financial account information, medical records, or other protected health information (PHI) through SMS.

3. How We Use Your Information
Your information is used strictly for the following Massachusetts-specific, funeral-related purposes:
- Providing updates regarding funeral arrangements or scheduled services - Confirming appointments, service times, or changes to arrangements - Requesting necessary information to complete funeral service tasks
- Communicating with next of kin or authorized representatives
- Providing notifications related to viewing, burial, cremation, or memorial services - Responding to questions or support requests
- Maintaining compliance with Massachusetts funeral service regulations and applicable communication laws
We do not use SMS for general marketing, advertising, or unrelated solicitations.

4. Massachusetts-Specific Compliance
Southcoast Funeral Service Inc. complies with:
- Massachusetts Consumer Protection Laws (M.G.L. c. 93A)
- Massachusetts Data Privacy Regulations (201 CMR 17.00) regarding the protection of personal information
- The Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA)
- CTIA guidelines for SMS communication
All sensitive or personal information shared via SMS is stored and transmitted in accordance with required state and federal standards.

5. SMS Opt-In Requirements
By opting in, you agree to receive funeral-related text messages from us. Opt-in may occur when you:
- Provide your number to us during funeral arrangements
- Request service updates via text
- Authorize a representative to receive messages
- Text us directly and acknowledge communication
You must be 18 years or older or an authorized decision-maker for funeral arrangements in order to enroll in our SMS program.

6. Opt-Out Instructions
You may unsubscribe from SMS at any time by replying “STOP” to any message. You may also contact us by phone or email to request removal from our SMS list. After unsubscribing, you may receive one final confirmation message. No further SMS communications will be sent unless you re-opt in.

7. Message Frequency
Message frequency depends on the services being provided and may vary based on the needs of the family or authorized contact. Typical examples include:
- Service updates
- Scheduling confirmations
- Time-sensitive notifications
- Requests for missing information
Message and data rates may apply depending on your mobile carrier plan.

8. Data Security Measures
In compliance with 201 CMR 17.00, we implement administrative, technical, and physical safeguards to protect personal information, including but not limited to: - Secure systems for storing communication information
- Limited access to subscriber data by authorized personnel only
- Reasonable protective measures for message handling and retention
However, no digital transmission is completely secure. You acknowledge that you provide information via SMS at your own discretion and understand the inherent risks.

9. Third-Party Service Providers
We may use third-party SMS gateway providers to assist in delivering text messages. These providers are permitted to use subscriber information solely for the purpose of delivering messages on our behalf and are prohibited from using or sharing the data for any other purpose. We do not sell, trade, or rent your SMS subscriber data to any third parties for marketing or advertising purposes.

10. Sensitive Communications
Funeral-related communications may involve personal, emotional, or sensitive topics. You should avoid transmitting highly confidential or sensitive details by SMS whenever possible. For matters requiring greater privacy or detail, we may request to communicate with you by phone, in person, or via another secure method.

11. Children’s Privacy
We do not knowingly communicate via SMS with individuals under the age of 13, nor do we knowingly collect data via SMS from minors without the authorization of a parent or legal guardian.

12. Changes to This Policy
We may modify or update this SMS Privacy Policy at any time to reflect changes in our practices or applicable laws. Changes become effective upon posting or distribution of the updated policy. Continued participation in our SMS program after such changes are made indicates your acceptance of the revised policy.

13. Contact Information
For questions about this SMS Privacy Policy, or to manage your SMS communications, please contact:
Southcoast Funeral Service Inc.
1555 Pleasant St, Fall River, MA 02723
Phone: [508-672-0291]
Email: [office@southcoastfuneralhome.com]