Election Results Via Text Messages

With so many heated issues on this year’s ballot, many will want to know the results as soon as possible. However, you may want to do some homework before turning to technology for results. 

You may have a new way to check for election results this coming Tuesday. It comes on your cell phone, however, if you choose to check out this new technology, you may want to be careful. 

Here's how it works on one website that we found. You simply enter your cell phone number, then select your service provider from a menu. It then promises to send you text messages with updates on election results. 

Scott Pirlet of Wireless World says, “The standard text messaging rates would apply unless they have a text messaging package on their account.” 

While this website offers a way to unsubscribe at any time, cellular service providers say unexpected charges can really add up. 

“They have to be aware that every update that is sent out, they're responsible for those charges,” says Pirlet. 

The site we found has a privacy policy. But providers still warn that giving out personal information could cause problems if it gets into the wrong hands. 

“There are a lot of way that people could use that number via text message or calling you,” warns Pirlet. 

So, while the text messages could be a quick, easy way to get election results, you'll want to make sure it's just the results you're looking for. 

The Verizon Wireless Corporation is advising their customers to always be aware when giving out their phone number. They also say if their customers receive a large amount of text messages from one source, they can call Verizon and report it as unwanted.