Definition
The BCC field (blind carbon copy) is an email header that sends a copy to listed addresses while hiding those addresses from all other recipients. Unlike the To or CC field, recipients never see who else is on a BCC line.
BCC is used for privacy, coordination or intentional reach. It lets you copy someone into an email without exposing their address or the full recipient list, which is useful for planning and record-keeping. In marketing, BCC can also be used to monitor or coordinate sends.
To vs CC vs BCC
| Field | Who Sees It | Visibility |
|---|---|---|
| To | Primary recipient | Visible to all |
| CC | Copied recipient | Visible to all |
| BCC | Hidden recipient | Visible to no one else |
Only BCC conceals the addresses.
Why Use BCC
- Privacy: It avoids exposing other recipients' addresses.
- Record-keeping: Copy yourself or a file for the record.
- Coordination: Loop in a colleague without a public reply.
- Anonymity: Add someone without introducing them to the group.
Considerations With BCC
- Reply discipline: BCC'd people miss replies because their address is hidden.
- Filter risks: Overuse in bulk mail can look suspicious.
- Accessibility: Hidden recipients are not in later threads.
Related Glossary Terms
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Email API
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Frequently Asked Questions
BCC stands for blind carbon copy. It sends a copy to listed addresses while hiding those addresses from all other recipients, so nobody else can see who is on the BCC line.
CC is visible to all recipients and replies stay open in the thread. BCC is hidden, so no one else sees those addresses and BCC'd people do not receive subsequent replies to the thread.
For privacy, to avoid exposing a full recipient list; for record-keeping, to copy yourself or a file; and for coordination, to include someone without making it public. Anywhere you want a copy without a visible trail.
In marketing, heavy BCC use either isn't meaningful or can look like an avoidable technique. BCC is mainly a practical tool for privacy and coordination. For mass mail you need a proper list and compliant permission, not BCC.