Gearcheck, Inc. ("Gearcheck") sends one-time verification codes by text message to users who choose SMS-based two-factor authentication (2FA) on gearcheck.com. This page describes how users opt in, what messages we send, and how users opt out. It applies to the Gearcheck two-factor authentication messaging program.
1. Program description
Gearcheck uses text messages only for account security. We send a one-time code when a user signs in, verifies a phone number, or resets a password. Every message is a direct response to an action the user takes. We do not send marketing or promotional text messages from this program.
2. How users opt in
Users opt in themselves, in the Gearcheck account security settings or during sign-in, by taking all of these steps:
- The user chooses text message (SMS) as a two-factor authentication method.
- The user types their own mobile number into the phone number field.
- The user reads the consent disclosure shown directly beneath the field and agrees to it by checking the unchecked box, or by selecting the button labeled with the consent action.
- The user selects "Send code." Gearcheck sends a code only after this step.
- The user enters the code to confirm that they control the number.
No text message is sent to a number until the user has completed these steps. Numbers are never added to the program by an administrator, by import, or by a third party.
3. Consent disclosure shown to users
This is the disclosure displayed at the point of opt-in, beneath the phone number field and before the "Send code" button:
I agree to receive one-time verification codes from Gearcheck, Inc. by text message at the mobile number I entered, for account security and two-factor authentication. Message frequency varies based on your account activity. Message and data rates may apply. Reply STOP to opt out or HELP for help. Consent is not a condition of purchase. See our Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy. Mobile information is not shared with third parties or affiliates for marketing or promotional purposes.
The box is unchecked by default and must be checked by the user. Links to the Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy appear in the disclosure and in the site footer.
4. Sample messages
Gearcheck: Your verification code is 482915. It expires in 10 minutes. Don't share this code with anyone.
Gearcheck: Use code 730264 to finish signing in. If you didn't request this, secure your account at gearcheck.com/security.
Gearcheck: Your password reset code is 119583. This code expires in 10 minutes.
5. Message frequency and costs
Message frequency varies based on user activity, such as how often a user signs in or requests a code. Message and data rates may apply according to the user's mobile plan. Gearcheck does not charge for these messages.
6. How to opt out and get help
- STOP. Reply STOP to any message to stop receiving texts. The user receives one confirmation message and no further messages. After opting out, the user can sign in with another method we offer, such as an authenticator app or email.
- HELP. Reply HELP to receive this message: "Gearcheck: For support, email support@gearcheck.com. Msg & data rates may apply. Reply STOP to opt out."
- Account settings. Users can remove their number or switch methods at any time in their account security settings.
7. Consent records
When a user opts in, Gearcheck records the mobile number, the date and time of consent, the version of the consent disclosure shown, and the user account associated with the request. We keep these records to demonstrate consent and to honor opt-outs.
8. Privacy
We use mobile numbers only to deliver security codes and for related account security purposes. We do not sell mobile numbers or share them, or SMS opt-in data and consent, with third parties or affiliates for marketing or promotional purposes. We share numbers only with the service providers that deliver our messages, solely for that purpose. See our Privacy Policy and Terms and Conditions for details.