Email Marketing Term
What is CAN-SPAM Act?
US law establishing rules for commercial email, including opt-out requirements and penalties for violations.
The CAN-SPAM Act (2003) sets baseline rules for commercial email in the United States.
Requirements: - No deceptive subject lines - Identify message as advertisement - Include physical postal address - Provide clear opt-out mechanism - Honor opt-outs within 10 business days - Monitor what others do on your behalf
Violations can result in penalties up to $50,120 per email. Unlike GDPR, CAN-SPAM allows opt-out (unsubscribe) rather than requiring opt-in consent.
CAN-SPAM is the minimum standard. Following stricter GDPR practices ensures compliance everywhere and builds better lists.
Examples
- Required: Physical address in footer
- Required: Working unsubscribe link
- Prohibited: Misleading "From" or subject lines
Tips for CAN-SPAM Act
- ✓Include physical address in every email
- ✓Process unsubscribes within 10 days (best: immediately)
- ✓Never use deceptive subject lines
- ✓Don't sell/transfer email addresses
Related Terms
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