Definition
CAN-SPAM applies to commercial email even when the recipient is a business. A common myth is that B2B mail is exempt.
B2B senders must still include a physical postal address, honour opt-outs, and identify the sender.
CAN-SPAM applies to B2B too, so the belief that business mail is exempt is a costly myth. A valid postal address, honest subject lines, and honoured opt-outs are required. Compliance protects you from fines and reputational harm.
What CAN-SPAM Requires
Accurate sender info, a real address, and a working opt-out.
Honour opt-outs within ten business days.
Why It Matters
CAN-SPAM applies to B2B too, and understanding it prevents the myth that business mail is exempt. Compliance protects you from fines.
Best Practices
- Include a valid physical postal address in B2B sends.
- Honour opt-outs within ten business days.
- Clearly identify the sender and subject.
- Do not mislead recipients about the offer.
- Monitor for B2B complaint patterns.
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Related Glossary Terms
CAN-SPAM Act
The CAN-SPAM Act is a US law that sets rules for commercial email. It requires accurate subject lines, a physical address, a clear opt-out mechanism, and prompt processing of unsubscribes. Violations can result in penalties up to $51,744 per email.
Cold Email
A cold email is an unsolicited message sent to a recipient who has not previously opted in, commonly used for B2B outreach, sales prospecting and networking.
Demand Generation in Email
Demand generation in email is the use of email campaigns to create awareness and interest in a product, service or solution, typically in B2B marketing.
Email Account Health Score
A composite metric that evaluates the overall health of an email sending programme based on deliverability, engagement, list quality, and compliance factors.
AI Email Privacy
AI email privacy covers how AI assistants process email data, raising questions about data use, retention, and consent.
Email Anti-Spam Laws
Overview of global anti-spam regulations including CAN-SPAM, CASL, GDPR, the Australian Spam Act, and POPIA with compliance requirements for each jurisdiction.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, commercial B2B email is generally subject to it. CAN-SPAM applies to B2B too, so the belief that business mail is exempt is a costly myth.
Accurate sender info, a real address, and a working opt-out. A valid postal address, honest subject lines, and honoured opt-outs are required.
Within ten business days. Compliance protects you from fines and reputational harm.
Transactional mail has exemptions from some rules. CAN-SPAM applies to B2B too, so the belief that business mail is exempt is a costly myth.
Fines per email in violation. A valid postal address, honest subject lines, and honoured opt-outs are required.