SMS Program Privacy Policy

This Privacy Policy applies specifically to the NewsAtomic SMS text-to-publish program (the "SMS Program"), through which you may submit photos, text, or other content for possible publication by sending a text message to one of NewsAtomic's designated SMS numbers.

Who We Are

NewsAtomic, Kingston Wire, and Shawangunk Journal are all owned by Zelacom Electronic Publishing, LLC ("Zelacom"). They are brands and publications of Zelacom, not separate companies or legal entities. When this policy refers to "NewsAtomic," "newsatomic," "we," "us," or "our," it means Zelacom Electronic Publishing, LLC. This policy applies to the SMS Program on newsatomic.com and Zelacom publication websites.

Program Description

NewsAtomic maintains dedicated phone numbers, each associated with a specific NewsAtomic publication. When you send an SMS message, including any photos or other media, to one of these numbers, your submission is received into our internal system, where it is manually reviewed and, at NewsAtomic's sole discretion, approved for publication.

How You Opt In

You opt in by texting a news tip, story idea, or photo to a designated NewsAtomic SMS number, or by using the public opt-in instructions at /sms-news-tips on the relevant publication website. By sending that first text, you consent to receive an automated confirmation reply about your submission. Consent is not a condition of any purchase.

Information Collected

When you participate in the SMS Program, we collect your mobile phone number and the content of the messages you send, including any text and images, along with the date and time of your submission.

How We Use Information

Your mobile number and message content are used solely to operate the SMS Program, including receiving your submission, manually reviewing it for possible publication, sending the automated confirmation described below, supporting HELP and STOP requests, and troubleshooting the SMS Program.

No Sharing, Purchasing, or Selling of Information

We do not share, purchase, or sell user information. We do not share, purchase, sell, rent, or disclose your personal information, mobile phone number, SMS opt-in data, or SMS consent to third parties or affiliates. Mobile numbers collected through the SMS Program are used solely to operate the SMS Program. The only exception is that we may share information with wireless carriers and our messaging provider as needed to deliver, support, or troubleshoot messages. Those providers are not permitted to use your information for their own marketing.

Automated Messages and Message Frequency

Message frequency varies based on your use of the SMS Program. After you submit a message, you will generally receive one automated reply per submission confirming receipt and providing a reference ID number, for example: "Your message has been received - for your reference, the id number is 1234. Reply STOP to opt out. Reply HELP for help. Msg & data rates may apply." You will not receive recurring or promotional messages unless you continue to submit content.

Message and Data Rates

Message and data rates may apply to any messages sent or received in connection with the SMS Program. Charges are determined by your mobile carrier and plan.

Opt-Out and Help

You may opt out of the SMS Program at any time by replying STOP to any message from us. Once you opt out, you will receive no further messages other than a final confirmation of your opt-out. For help, reply HELP to any message from us, or email [email protected].

Carriers

Carriers are not liable for delayed or undelivered messages. We are not responsible for issues arising from unsupported carriers or devices.

Related Terms

SMS Program terms are also in our Privacy Policy and Terms and Conditions .

Policy Updates

We may update this SMS Program Privacy Policy from time to time. Updates will be posted on this page.