Complying With the CAN-SPAM Act When Sending Emails
This information is not legal advice. While we do our best to provide useful information as a starting point, Yotpo advises all merchants to seek professional legal advice to ensure that all marketing campaigns are sent in full compliance with all applicable laws.
The Controlling the Assault of Non-Solicited Pornography And Marketing act (or the CAN-SPAM act), is a United States law that regulates commercial email messages. The primary goal of the CAN-SPAM act is to protect consumers from receiving unwanted or fraudulent email messages while still allowing legitimate businesses to use email marketing as a communication tool. Companies that violate the provisions of the CAN-SPAM act can face substantial penalties and fines.
In this article, you’ll learn about the guidelines you must follow to stay compliant with the CAN-SPAM act.
CAN-SPAM act requirements
The CAN-SPAM act requires merchants to follow a few simple rules that apply to every commercial email. Some of these requirements have been covered by the Yotpo email composer, but some are solely dependent on the merchant.
Don’t use false or misleading header information
The email address and domain name of the sender or business that initiated the message must be clear and accurate.
Don’t use deceptive subject lines
The subject line must accurately reflect the content of the message. Don’t send clickbait.
Identify the message as an ad
While the law provides flexibility on the approach, it is necessary to disclose explicitly that the message is an advertisement.
Tell recipients where you’re located
Your message must include your valid physical postal address. This can be your current street address, a post office box you’ve registered with the U.S. Postal Service, or a private mailbox you’ve registered with a commercial mail-receiving agency established under Postal Service regulations.
Provide a free and obvious way to opt out of every email
Every email must include a free, clear, and conspicuous explanation of how the recipient can opt out of getting email from you in the future.
Honor opt-out requests promptly
Any opt-out mechanism you offer must be able to process opt-out requests for at least 30 days after you send your message. You must honor a recipient’s opt-out request within 10 business days.
Don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any questions or feedback.