What is explicit consent?

Explicit consent means the recipient clearly and affirmatively agreed to receive email from you. This requires an active opt in action rather than passive acceptance or assumption. The person knowingly chose to join your mailing list.

Explicit consent typically involves checking a box, clicking a subscribe button, or otherwise taking deliberate action. Pre checked boxes, bundled consent, or assumed consent from other relationships do not qualify.

Standards and regulations increasingly require explicit consent. GDPR mandates it for EU recipients. CAN-SPAM allows implied consent but explicit consent provides stronger legal protection and better engagement outcomes.