While the government offers assurances that the bill will not adversely affect legitimate businesses that send mass marketing emails to consenting recipients, nor will it prevent the collection of email lists for lawful advertising purposes, it can be used against both American and Canadians who do not abide by its provisions.
The intent of penalties is to encourage compliance rather than act as a punitive measure, but violators found guilty by Canadian courts could face steep fines: up to $1 million for individuals, or $10 million for groups and organizations. Businesses are advised to keep thorough records of email communications to prove compliance with the law; while anyone seeking further information can find it at www.fightspam.gc.ca, which provides both the full text of the law and a simple, easy-to-follow breakdown of how it works, what it means for a business, and how to comply.
