Crackdown on 'spam' e-mail

[Henk Elegeert]

REPLY TO: D66 at nic.surfnet.nl

http://www.pm.gov.uk/output/page3367.asp

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          Crackdown on 'spam' e-mail

Proposals to tackle the problem of unwanted e-mails or 'spam' and
strengthening privacy rights have been unveiled. It is estimated that
spam currently accounts for as much as 40 per cent of global email
traffic. Badly targeted text messages are also a growing problem.

The new proposals unveiled offer protection against unsolicited
communications via email, SMS and phone. They aim to provide
customers with greater transparency and choice in how their
personal details are used.

Consultation on the implementation of the European Directive on
Privacy and Electronic Communications will be carried out over the
next three months. The proposed regulations will:

- require businesses to gain prior consent before sending unsolicited
advertising e-mails. This consent must be explicitly given on an
'opt-in' basis by all except where there is an existing customer
relationship;
- require that the use of 'cookies' or other tracking devices is clearly
indicated and that people are given the opportunity to reject them;
- allow mobile operators and their partners to provide customers with
value added services, such as traffic and weather updates, where consent
has been given; and
- ensure stronger rights for individuals to decide if they wish to be
listed in subscriber directories. Clear information about the directory
must also be given, e.g. whether further contact details can be obtained
from just a telephone number or a name and address.

Launching the consultation, e-Commerce Minister Stephen Timms
said:

"Spam has become the curse of the internet. It is a source of
major frustration as it clogs up inboxes the world over.

"Just as the internet and mobile technology have become a firm
feature of our lives, spam is threatening that status. It is in danger
of becoming a real deterrent to online communication."
"

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