It’s tough getting a brand new product off the ground and into the market. You’ve spent many years – and no doubt thousands of dollars – perfecting it and preparing to put this product out on the market. There are probably ten or twenty more people with a similar product looking for an in. Because of this, fledgling business owners will turn to direct email marketing without realizing the dangers involved.

Direct email marketing involves composing an advertisement for a specific product and then emailing that advertisement out to people. However, not many realize that this practice is actually illegal. A business owner will often compose a special advertisement that links back to a website where their product is sold and then send it to many different email addresses hoping to interest someone. Sending spam emails is actually illegal in a few states like Washington and Virginia – you can even be sued in small claims court for damages if you’re found guilty of sending out spam emails.

And that’s not the only recourse that someone has if they decide that they are being harassed. If someone decides they are being harassed, they can complain their Internet Service Provider. It’s easier for them to shut down the site than it is to deal with customers who are complaining about receiving unsolicited mail. They can even request another Internet Service Provider to shut down your website and, if they choose, fine you anywhere from $20 to $20,000 if they find you in violation of their Terms of Service.

However, there are types of direct email marketing that are not considered spam by anyone. It’s a common practice amongst all companies, big and small, to obtain email addresses from customers who purchase their items. The company will then send those special offers or information about new products through their email address. If someone knows they can get special discounts, they are more likely to stay with a company.

Navigating the world of direct email marketing can be very tricky. Is it worth getting your important website shut down? Consider if it’s worth a very expensive fine. Remember that people get annoyed and will report you to their ISP. In most cases, the risks far outweigh the benefits.

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