Text messaging allowed on government cell phones Published Aug. 20, 2009 By Danielle Lutes 71st Flying Training Wing Public Affairs VANCE AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- While texting may be part of one's personal cell phone plan, rules are different when it comes to the use of government cell phones. "Text messaging is allowed on government cell phones, though some restrictions apply," said Timothy Larsen, the Personal Wireless Communications Systems specialist. Government cell phones are those purchased and authorized by government sources. More than 50 texts a month requires a texting plan and must be approved using the Air Force Form 3215. Fewer than 50 texts a month do not require approval. Regardless of the amount of texting, all texts must be business related. Text messages may not contain any Privacy Act Information, personally identifiable information, for official use only, sensitive but unclassified or government propriety information. Text messaging is prohibited on any Blackberry or Windows Mobile Messaging wireless device that has e-mail capabilities without further approval. Because the devices can be used for sending e-mails, they will not be used for texting. The base and unit cellular user agreement is currently being modified to include more comprehensive text messaging information. The new version must be signed by all cell phone and personal digital assistant users. For more information, call Mr. Larsen at 213-6550. Remember-- while on the base, talking on the phone or texting while driving is not allowed.