What is the Cellular Telecommunications and Internet Association (CTIA)?

The CTIA is an international non-profit membership organization based in Washington DC that represents wireless carriers, suppliers, and manufacturers of wireless data services and products. The CTIA and the carriers it represents make the rules about text message marketing and enforce those rules through random audits. If the rules are violated, an entity can lose its short code.

The association advocates on behalf of its members at all levels of government. CTIA also coordinates the industry's voluntary efforts to provide consumers with choices and information regarding their wireless products and services. This includes the voluntary industry guidelines; programs that promote mobile device recycling and reusing; and wireless accessibility for people with disabilities.

The association also operates the industry's leading trade shows, as well as equipment testing and certification programs to ensure a high standard of quality for consumers.