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The Government has introduced new measures to tackle the nuisance of spam or junk emails and give phone and internet users more control over how their personal details are used. From the 11th December 2003 consent will be needed before unsolicited commercial e-mail (spam) and text messages (SMS) are sent to individual subscribers. There is an exception to this rule in the context of an existing customer relationship. In addition there will be new requirements on firms using cookies and similar internet tracking devices to provide information and a chance for the user to refuse the cookies. The Government has also announced its intention to extend the Telephone Preference Service to corporate subscribers next year. This means that all businesses as well as individuals will be able to opt-out of phone marketing. This move is backed by the British Chambers of Commerce and the Federation of Small Businesses. The new regulations will be enforced by the Office of the Information Commissioner. Any breaches of enforcement orders issued by the Information Commissioner will be a criminal offence liable to a fine of up to £5,000 in a magistrates court, or an unlimited fine if the trial is before a jury. In addition anyone who has suffered damages because the regulations have been breached has the right to sue the person responsible for compensation. Contact Info: Department of Trade and Industry, 7th Floor, 1 Victoria Street, London SW1H 0ET Public Enquiries: 020 7215 5000 Textphone: 020 7215 6740 (for those with hearing impairment) |
| Department of Trade and Industry web site: www.dti.gov.uk |
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Monday, October 6, 2003 |
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