METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR FILTERING EMAIL

摘要

An automated method of controlling sending of email filters it using a Client Filter computer (12) running an email server and software filter components 32 to 50 outside a client's email server or intranet. The Client Filter (12) is accessible from a Server Installation SI to which it sends email authorisation request;, and from which responses indicate request validity or otherwise. Emails associated with invalid requests are rejected and those associated with valid requests are transmitted. Validation is implemented by the Server Installation SI generating and assigning respective Campaign Numbers to email campaigns. The Client Filter (12) rejects emails not having valid Campaign Numbers. Users indicate willingness or otherwise to receive email by having email addresses upon or omitted from opt in or opt out lists. In addition to request validation, the Server Installation SI is responsible for billing and maintains audit records, email address lists, campaign information and email approval/rejection records.