Just because nobody has been arrested yet, doesnt mean that there won't be a first lol. I am not trying to start trouble but I rather be informed about how it should be done right.
Here is something that I would like to share directly from the ftc.gov website:
"Each separate email in violation of the CAN-SPAM Act is subject to penalties of up to $16,000, so non-compliance can be costly. But following the law isn’t complicated. Here’s a rundown of CAN-SPAM’s main requirements:"
It appears that Cold emailing Business 2 Business is not illegal as long as the following steps are taken:
- The email has to include a physical address / business name
- Do not use deceptive subject lines (re: and such)
- Dont use false header information (so dont spoof your email so that it looks like somebody else)
- You have to identify that your email is an ad
- Provide a working (!) opt-out link in your emails and they have to be processed within 10 days
It seems to me that cold emailing clients is a grey line issue. Sure.. you can stay under the radar if you're smart about it and follow the guidelines described above.. just don't overdo it
Also if you do international lead mailing then you have to be aware that other countries have their own regulations. Canada for example does not follow all of the same rules that the US does.
Again, I am not trying to stir up things.. but I would prefer to prevent somebody from getting a big fine just by sharing the info that those specific requirements have to be met lol
/Edit I am actually reaching out to a Lawyer friend of mine tomorrow to see about further clarification