Targeting Rules – Instruction Guide

Last Updated: 12/1/2026     Tags: target expressions, target, expression
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What Are Targeting Rules?

Targeting Rules allow you to define specific targeting conditions that must be included in any activity (e.g. Email, SMS, Push) before it can be approved or deployed. All recipients must meet the targeting rules criteria.

These rules help ensure that all communications meet required criteria, improving compliance with internal policies and legal regulations.

Key Features

  • New Targeting Rules section Create and manage your targeting rules in the one location
  • Rules Created via Target Expression Tool Build targeting rules using the familiar Target Expression Tool.
  • Channel-Specific Rules Set different rules for each Distribution Channel (e.g., Email vs. SMS vs. Push Notifications).
  • Enable or Disable Rules In the Targeting rules section, turn individual rules on or off as needed – giving you flexibility without losing control.

How Targeting Rules Work in Activities

  1. Rule Violation Pop-Up Notification If your activity's targeting does not meet the required rules, a pop-up will notify you of the missing or invalid conditions.

Rule Violation Pop-Up Notification

β†’ The activity cannot be approved until the rule is satisfied.

  1. Approval Button Disabled The "Approve" button will be disabled for non-compliant activities.

Approval Button Disabled

β†’ Administrator users will see an β€œApprove Anyway” option to override the rules when necessary.

Admin users

  1. Compliant Target Expressions If the targeting meets all active rules: β†’ The activity can be saved and approved as normal.

Compliant Target

Why Set Up Targeting Rules?

Targeting rules act as a safeguard to:

βœ… Ensure your messages are only sent to eligible customers

βœ… Minimize the risk of non-compliance with data privacy or marketing laws

βœ… Enforce internal policies consistently across teams

βœ… Maintain high-quality audience targeting

Example Use Cases

  • Ensure all email activities only include those opted in to marketing
  • Require SMS campaigns to include age-based or consent filters
  • Set stricter rules for push notifications to avoid over-targeting

Administrator Overrides

Administrators can override targeting rules when required. Admins will need to have 2FA enabled or single sign-on.

Use this feature with caution and only when you’re confident the message remains compliant with all legal and ethical standards.

Getting Started

  1. Navigate to the Targeting Rules Settings area Settings > Targeting Rules

Targeting Rules Settings

  1. Select Add targeting rule

  2. Configure your rule by selecting an activity type and defining the conditions with the Target Expression Tool

Targeting Rules Settings

  1. Enable the rule and save your changes Repeat as needed for each activity type. Each activity type can only have one rule created.