What are CASL restrictions on unsolicited messages?

Canada's Anti-Spam Legislation (CASL) is among the world's strictest email regulations, requiring consent before sending commercial electronic messages.

Express consent: The recipient explicitly agreed to receive messages. Must be documented and specific about message types.

Implied consent exists in limited circumstances:

Existing business relationship (purchase or inquiry in past 2 years, contract in past 2 years)

Conspicuously published business email where the message relates to recipient's role or business (not broad marketing)

Personal relationship or family relationship

Requirements for all messages:

Identify the sender clearly

Provide contact information

Include working unsubscribe mechanism

Honor unsubscribe within 10 business days

Penalties:

Up to $1 million CAD per violation for individuals

Up to $10 million CAD per violation for organizations

Private right of action allows recipients to sue

CASL applies if either sender or recipient is in Canada. Organizations targeting Canadian markets must comply.