Breaking News: Spam — Don't Try to Opt-Out

Spam — Don't Try to Opt-Out

The CAN SPAM Act allows legitimate marketing by email if it is identified as advertising and contains a working opt-out link. Unscrupulous bulk emailers are using the opt-out link to get you to download programs without your consent. The opt-out link in these emails takes you to a website that automatically downloads undesirable programs.

Experts have always recommended that you don't open email from addresses you don't recognize. They have also recommended that you don't respond to any spam—don't purchase the product, don't click on any links including the opt-out.

You may receive email from businesses that you have a relationship with (bought from them, own their product). These messages aren't classified as spam and you can use the opt-out link.

RealityCheck recommends that you don't open email from persons you don't know and if you do, don't click on the opt-out link.

These articles list ways to attempt to reduce the spam in your inbox.

Reducing Spam from US-CERT
You've Got Spam: How to "Can" Unwanted Email from the FTC

RealityCheck Tip

RealityCheck breaking news may link to sites provided by a variety of sources. Even though we review sites for credibility and reliability, RealityCheck, of course, can't control advertising and other links on these sites. We advise ignoring pop-up ads, links to sales of products and service, and the like.