Hey folks. Today I was offered access to a device that allows you to send messages to anyone within Bluetooth range. It looks like quite a sophisticated solution and I asked them whether it was legal to use, because of privacy issues.
It sounded really cool, like a billboard on your mobile, but I wanted to check. I went to the DIA website and found the following and I guess I have my answer. I'd welcome any comments. It would seem like a cool opportunity to 'market' to people in a very small proximity, but I can't see it passing the following requirements, even thought the specific technology isn't mentioned and of course new tech comes out all the time. :
Anyone sending commercial electronic messages needs to follow the Unsolicited Electronic Messages Act 2007.
This law applies to:
- Electronic messages: email, text messages (SMS), instant messages, and facsimile messages (faxes) that are
- Commercial: promoting a product, service, business or investment opportunity.
This law says that when you send a commercial electronic message:
- The person receiving it must agree to receive your messages.
- You need to clearly and accurately say who you are as the sender.
- There must be a clear and easy way for the person receiving your commercial electronic messages to unsubscribe or stop receiving them.