If you cannot determine the source of your contacts, does this mean you have verifiable permission to send them?

The correct answer is that not being able to determine the source of your contacts means you do not have verifiable permission to send them marketing communications. Verifiable permission refers to the consent obtained from individuals to receive communication, and it is essential for compliance with regulations like GDPR and CAN-SPAM.

When you lack clarity about how contacts were acquired, you cannot confirm that they have willingly opted in to receive emails from you. Without this knowledge, there is a risk of violating consent laws, placing both your reputation and legal standing in jeopardy. It’s crucial to have documented evidence or understanding of how contacts were added to your list to ensure they are genuinely interested in your content and services.

While some might argue that the context of the contact's source could affect this assumption, generally, without explicit permission or a means to verify it, it’s unsafe to proceed with outreach. This highlights the importance of establishing clear opt-in practices and maintaining transparency with your audience regarding how their information is used.