What is and is not an email opt-in list?

SimplyCast defines an email opt-in list as one where all the contacts have specifically requested to receive emails from you through a closed-loop or double opt-in signup process. This means that all the contacts will have given you their email address, usually through a web form, or a signup sheet, and then confirmed their subscription through email by clicking on a confirmation link or replying to the confirmation email.

This means that any list received from any third party cannot be used, as the contacts on it will NOT have specifically requested to receive emails from you.

What is NOT an email opt-in list?

Lists that cannot be used are, but are not limited to:

1. Any purchased list. Any list from any third party or affiliate.
2. Any list generated by a computer program that searches the web for email addresses.

I purchased this "opt-in" list, can I use it?

No, absolutely not. Any list that has been purchased does not meet our definition of an email opt-in list. SimplyCast cannot be used to send unsolicited bulk email, more commonly known as SPAM.

I was given this list by an organization I am affiliated with. Can I use it?

No. Any list received from any third party cannot be used, as the contacts on it will NOT have specifically requested to receive emails from you.

My company just completed acquiring/ purchasing/ merging with company B, can I use their mailing list?

This is a bit of a gray area. In the case of a merger, where Company A wishes to use the mailing list of Company B, and Company B has changed names / been removed as an entity, then Yes. However, in this case, best practice would be to start with an explanation of the merger, how it will affect future emails, and asking users to reconfirm their subscription. Do not simply start a new email marketing campaign immediately with contacts who may have never heard of you before because they will likely not be aware of the merger!

It is recommended that you consult the latest anti-spam regulations, as you are responsible for ensuring that your emails are compliant!

I'm starting a new business, can I use the mailing list from my other active/failed/closed business?

No, but you could do email marketing for your old business (using it to advertise) and ask for signups from parties interested in your new business.

If you have any other questions about opt-in email lists, feel free to contact our Support team at support@simplycast.com