How to File a Complaint About Spam

If you're connected to the Internet and use an email address, you're likely familiar with spam. Spam is a nuisance at the least and a potential source of harm to your computer at the worst. What's even more disturbing about spam is that it's no longer limited to email. In fact, spam can be found across many digital platforms, including chat rooms, discussion forums and even as text messages being sent to your cellular phone. However, there are laws in place that can help protect you from spam. If you want to fry spam once and for all, then you need to know how to file a complaint with the proper authorities.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Copies of email or other documentation to accompany your spam complaint
• Computer with Internet access

Get a Handle on Canning Spam

1. Know that the CAN-SPAM Act became effective in 2003 and prohibits marketers from sending advertisements to your email address or other digital devices without your expressed permission.

2. Don't just ignore spam; put a stop to it. Find out how you can stop all spam from reaching your email and other systems, including unsolicited text messages to your mobile phone, from the Federal Trade Commission (see Resources below).

3. Forward your spam-containing email to, or file a complaint at the Federal Trade Commission so it can take action on your behalf (see Resources below).

Reduce Future Spam

1. Avoid becoming a target for spam by refraining from sharing your email address and other contact information online unless it's with a business or Web site you know and trust.

2. Read the privacy policy on a Web site before providing any information to receive news or product updates via email. Anti-spam laws dictate that this policy must state how your information will be used and if it will be shared with other parties.

Tips & Warnings

• Value your contact information as much as spammers do. The Internet is constantly being scanned by "list brokers" who are eager to sell your email address to another party for the purpose of blasting you with unwanted advertising.

• Be aware that message boards or newsgroups sometimes make your email address visible to other users. If possible, try to use a service that doesn't do this.