GDPR Email Compliance
The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is an EU law that governs how personal data, including email addresses, is collected, stored, and used. For email senders, GDPR requires explicit consent (opt-in) before sending marketing emails, the ability for recipients to withdraw consent easily, and clear disclosure of how email data is used.
GDPR vs CAN-SPAM
GDPR is stricter than CAN-SPAM in several ways:
- ●Consent: GDPR requires explicit opt-in. CAN-SPAM allows sending without prior consent (opt-out model).
- ●Scope: GDPR applies to anyone sending to EU residents, regardless of where the sender is located.
- ●Penalties: GDPR fines can reach 4% of global annual revenue or 20 million euros.
- ●Data rights: GDPR gives recipients the right to access, correct, and delete their data.
If you send to any EU residents, treat GDPR as your baseline compliance standard.
Related Terms
CAN-SPAM Act
US law setting rules for commercial email, including opt-out requirements and header accuracy.
Double Opt-In
A subscription process where users confirm their email address before being added to a mailing list.
Suppression List
A list of email addresses that should never receive emails, including unsubscribes, bounces, and complaints.
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