Courts Rule SMS Messages Fall Under TCPA Regulations in Landmark Case

The legal landscape surrounding SMS messages and the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA) has shifted significantly following a recent court ruling. In the case of Mujahid v. Newity, decided on November 10, 2025, the Northern District of Illinois ruled that SMS messages qualify as “calls” under the TCPA. This decision marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing debate regarding the applicability of the TCPA’s Do Not Call (DNC) rules to text messages.

The ruling comes after a series of conflicting decisions from various U.S. courts. Previously, three courts determined that SMS messages are covered by the TCPA’s DNC rules, while three others argued they are not. This latest judgment effectively tips the balance in favor of those asserting that SMS communications fall under the TCPA’s regulations.

In the Mujahid case, the court denied the defendant’s motion to dismiss the case, providing five compelling reasons for its decision. The court emphasized that SMS messages serve a similar purpose as traditional calls, which necessitates that they adhere to the same regulatory framework established by the TCPA.

One key aspect of the ruling is its implications for businesses and organizations that rely on SMS marketing. With this decision, entities engaging in text message promotions must now ensure compliance with the TCPA’s stringent DNC rules, which were designed to protect consumers from unsolicited communications.

This ruling is particularly significant in the context of evolving communication practices in the digital age. SMS messaging has become a primary channel for businesses to connect with consumers. As such, the court’s interpretation reinforces the necessity for businesses to navigate compliance carefully to avoid potential legal ramifications.

Legal experts are closely monitoring the developments stemming from this case. The decision not only clarifies the status of SMS messages under the TCPA but also sets a precedent for how future cases may be adjudicated. With the increasing reliance on messaging platforms for marketing and communication, the ramifications of this ruling are likely to resonate across various industries.

As this legal battle continues to unfold, stakeholders from both the legal and business communities will be watching closely. The implications of the Mujahid ruling extend beyond the immediate case, potentially influencing how SMS communications are regulated in the future and shaping the landscape of consumer protection laws regarding electronic communications.