I highly recommend JL Scott’s Newsletter – she tells it like it really IS and doesn’t pull any punches.  Her ezine is actually one of the FEW that I actually take time to read because it always contains helpful and interesting stuff & often a little controversy. 

This week’s issue is about the upcoming governmental changes in income reporting (which I hope gets vetoed) as well as how our privacy gets compromised by far too many dishonest internet marketers who claim to “… hate spam as much as you do” while they’re trying to get you to opt-in, and then those snakes turn around and give, sell, barter or trade your private info so you get even MORE spam!  GRRRR.

Part of the point is that before you opt-in to ANYTHING, take a few moments to READ that site’s privacy policy.  The more honest ones will tell you exactly how your info will be used – and every site is supposed to do that.  And just for your curiosity about mine?  I don’t share… because I respect you.  Sure, it’s less lucrative, but what about ethical marketing?  Surely we can keep that alive…

Here’s an excerpt from this week’s newsletter:

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) demands that every web site from the USA – and any that do business with folks in the USA – must have a Privacy Policy posted. We talked about this last week.

What many “top” internet marketers have discovered is this: the FTC does NOT say they cannot sell, trade or give away visitor information. It ONLY states you must clearly post what you plan to do with the information.

THIS is the reason many of them are sharing your information. And, the fact that they are doing it is posted right there in their Privacy Statements. It may be unethical – but, it IS legal.

I know it’s a PITA, but if you’re going to give your email address – or any other information – to a web site, you NEED to take the time to read their Privacy Policy.

If you want to read the rest of this issue – visit i-Cop’s Online Business Trade Journal here.  JL always provides you with useable, helpful information for your business and your life.  If you’re in online marketing, you DEFINITELY want to read what the government is up to now!

Have a great one!

Donna