What is a Flagged Number?
What Is a “Flagged Number”?
A flagged number is a Linq Blue line temporarily blocked from sending iMessages after Apple detects excessively high message volume or spam-like activity.
Once flagged:
-
Outbound iMessages fail to send
- Outbound SMS's also fail to send
Causes of a Flagged Number
| Category | Cause | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Velocity | Too many conversations started too fast | 100+ new conversations in one minute |
| Spam Reports | Recipients click “Report Junk” | Cold messages to unknown contacts |
| Automated Tone | Robotic, repetitive, non-personal | “Hi! Would you like to buy X? Reply YES or NO.” |
| Content | Sending links, attachments, or sales-heavy copy in the first message | Sending a link in your first message without adequate context |
| Improper Use Case | Using iMessage for text blasts/cold outreach | CRM automations to leads bought from lists |
How to Avoid Being Flagged
1. Velocity & Engagement
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Limit to 50 new conversations per day per line
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Avoid bursts (e.g., 100 texts in a minute), instead use drip sequence
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Space follow-ups a few hours apart, or one day apart
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Send only 2–3 follow-ups max if no reply
2. Human Messaging Tone
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iMessage = P2P, not mass marketing
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Be conversational and authentic
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Keep openers short, personal, and free of links or attachments
3. Avoid “Report Junk” Triggers
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Message only warm, opted-in leads
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Avoid cold texting or unverified lists
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Focus on genuine, contextual outreach
4. First Message Formula
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Be personable → “Hey John, this is Jane with Linq!”
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Keep it short → 1–2 sentences max
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Invite reply → Ask an open question (“What CRM are you using?”)
Summary
| Do This | Avoid This |
|---|---|
| Personalized, short, human messages | Automated or sales scripts |
| Limit new daily outreach | Text blasting |
| 2–3 spaced follow-ups | Rapid, repetitive messages or long followup sequences |
| Use iMessage for warm communication | Mass marketing or cold campaigns |