So what is CAN-SPAM anyway?

The CAN-SPAM act is law. Yes a law, that is designed to stop SPAM (loosely defined as unsolicited email) from getting into any email inbox when it is sent from "Commercial Emailers".

The acronym "CAN-SPAM" comes from "Controlling the Assault of Non-Solicited Pornography and Marketing Act".

The paragraph below is taken directly from the act itself and can be reviewed in it's entirety at the CAN-SPAM Act

"The law, which became effective January 1, 2004, covers email whose primary purpose is advertising or promoting a commercial product or service, including content on a Web site. A "transactional or relationship message" – email that facilitates an agreed-upon transaction or updates a customer in an existing business relationship – may not contain false or misleading routing information, but otherwise is exempt from most provisions of the CAN-SPAM Act."

The Act includes PENALTIES. So you should get to know what they are. Here is another extract from the ACT:

"Each violation of the above provisions is subject to fines of up to $11,000. Deceptive commercial email also is subject to laws banning false or misleading advertising."

You are encouraged to visit the above link to get acquainted with the Act. It is spelled out pretty clearly. It is clearly better to review the Act itself rather then an interpretation of it in this Blog. But suffice to say it is important for you to cover it. Your service provider should help you to conform to the needs you should follow in adhering to the Act.