Computer and Library Learning (Archived)

Happy Canada’s Day! In addition to July 1st being Canada’s day, July 1^st 2014 is also the day most of the government of Canada’s anti-spam legislation comes into effect.

Spam is the unwanted messages you receive electronically such as via email.

According to the government of Canada, Canada’s anti-spam legislation is “committed to reducing the harmful effects of spam and related threats to electronic commerce” and is “working towards a safer and more secure online marketplace”.  For more information visit the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission website. 

So what does this mean? In the last couple of weeks, you may have received emails from different commercial entities seeking your consent to continue sending you electronic communications after July 1^st, 2014.

This is because the new legislation requires all “commercial electronic messages” which are electronic message sent to “encourage participation in commercial activity” via email, instant messages etc. to abide by certain rules. These rules include  

1. Obtaining consent
2. Providing identification information and
3. Providing an unsubscribe mechanism. 

For more information be sure to check out the frequently asked questions on Canada’s Anti-Spam Legislation.

This new legislation will help to protect you from unwanted spam. Do you want to learn more about protecting yourself on the Internet? Download Internet Safety handout. Or check out one of our computer classes on Internet Safety online at the Toronto Public Library.