Here’s a big reason to click “unsubscribe” on spam emails

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I don’t know about you, but I get marketing emails every day. I’m a big fan of online shopping, and many companies I’ve dealt with have continued to email me after our transaction was completed. It doesn’t always bother me; I learn about new products as they come out, and if I decide to buy, I can usually find a coupon code and sometimes get other benefits, like free shipping. These offers can be fantastic — if I actively choose to spend money.

Here’s why you might want to assess the psychological effect of marketing emails and possibly unsubscribe.

Buying something you don’t need or want just because you have a coupon: BROKE

I definitely fell prey to the siren song of email marketing and bought something I didn’t really need or want. “This week only, buy this product, save 15%!” “Spend $X, get free shipping today!” These emails are written by talented marketers who know how to get you to open the email, based on the subject line. And once the email is open, you can just pull out your credit card.

Coupons can be dangerous to your bottom line because they encourage consumers to shop around and often spend even more money. For example, if you buy a pair of shoes for $50 just because you have a $20 coupon, you haven’t saved $20. You spent $50 that you wouldn’t have spent without the coupon.

As I actively work to improve my financial knowledge, I become much more resilient. Financial literacy really can be learned at any age. Being more mindful of my buying and spending habits does wonders for my budget and my peace of mind.

Use a coupon to save money on something you need or want: WOKE

On the other hand, sometimes receiving marketing communications by email can be good for my wallet. I believe in shopping wisely and trying to save money when I can. I do comparison shopping, and having an existing relationship with certain online retailers means I sometimes hear about deals and sales without having to research them.

For example, one of the food delivery apps I use has also started expanding to retail delivery, and I recently received an email saying I could save $20 on my first order. at a local pet supply store. Well, I have three cats, and while they bring me joy every day, they also cost me a fair amount of money in food, supplies, toys, and veterinary care. I happened to need some cat food, and not only did I get $50 worth of cat food for $30, it was delivered right to my door. That’s what I call a winning coupon.

You have the right to unsubscribe

Congress enacted the Controlling the Assault of Non-Solicited Pornography and Marketing (CAN-SPAM) Act nearly 20 years ago, in 2003. This law prohibits the use of misleading information (including subject lines ) in email marketing communications, and also requires that such messages have a place where the recipient can opt out of receiving them in the future.

So if you’re having a hard time resisting marketing pitches, or just want to reduce the flood of emails clogging your inbox, start opening the marketing emails you no longer want to receive, scroll down down and click “unsubscribe.” Your bank account will thank you.

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