When You Are Unjustly Accused of Spamming

There is a growing problem on the Internet that has hit just about everyone I know. Sometimes people are mistakenly and unjustly accused of sending unsolicited email.

As you know, sending email to people you don't know or who didn't ask for it can get a person into a lot of hot water.

Their Internet service can be canceled and their web site deleted.

While most people who report spam are law-abiding folks trying to do their part to keep the Net on track, there are some who unfortunately resort to criminal behavior to curb spam.

Sometimes your ad, link, sales letter, or article can be used by a spammer without your permission. You may be regarded guilty by association.

If you are accused of spamming and you DIDN'T spam, here are some things you can do to head off trouble.

1. Analyze, or have an expert analyze, all the header information in the spam. Often people report the wrong address or a spammer forges your address.

2. Gently explain to those involved how you were not in any way behind the spam. Look up their phone number (check their web site or the NetworkSolutions.com whois file). People tend to be more reasonable when they meet you on the phone.

3. Put a no-spam statement on your web site. This marks you as one of the "good guys" when a situation breaks out.

4. Know your rights. The laws of our nation apply to the Internet. Nobody can fine you or take away your property without due process, often in a court of law. Just because you clicked "agree" to a provision in an online contract does not mean that provision is enforceable.

5. Contact a lawyer if you can afford one. Many will give simple advice over the phone at low cost or for free. If you can't afford legal expenses, check the excellent free information at Nolo.com.

Kevin Nunley provides marketing and copy writing. Read all his free tips at http://DrNunley.com Reach Kevin at kevin@drnunley.com or 603-249-9519.

Feel free to use Kevin's articles on your website or in your newsletter or sales materials. Include contact info at the end. No spam.