Hacker News Reader

The mapping part (IP/netblock --> email) might not be illegal in the USA, but I'm pretty sure that sending users unsolicited emails after visiting a website is.

View on HN

That's a good point. An unsolicited advertisement for something could be considered illegal according to CAN-SPAM but if the individual has a relationship with that company than an email like the one the sent to Sumit is legal. It could likely be argued that visiting a site could be considered establishing a relationship.

That's just a guess on my part. I'd love to hear from someone better versed on the law about the legality of that email.

Sending unsolicited emails is not against the law. CAN-SPAM law states that users must be able to opt out of receiving emails after they receive the email. There is nothing against the law of random companies sending emails to any individual they like, regardless of a previous business relationship.

Opt In is a cultural idea, not a legal one.

Reply on news.ycombinator.com