CAN-SPAM
Last updated: March 2025
Definition
The Controlling the Assault of Non-Solicited Pornography And Marketing Act. US federal law governing commercial email. Requires accurate header info, a physical mailing address, clear identification as an ad, and a working unsubscribe mechanism. Penalties up to $51,744 per violation.
Why It Matters
CAN-SPAM applies to every commercial email sent to US recipients, including cold outreach. Violations are enforced by the FTC. Even if you're a small company, non-compliance risks fines that could end your business. The requirements are simple enough that there's no excuse to skip them.
How to Improve
- Add your physical business address to every email footer. A PO box counts if you don't want to share your street address.
- Never use deceptive subject lines or misleading 'From' names. The law requires honest identification.
- Process unsubscribe requests within 10 business days. Automate this. Manual processing invites mistakes.
- If you use an email service provider, they handle most CAN-SPAM requirements. Verify your setup is compliant anyway.