The Gmail Program Policies play an important role in maintaining a positive experience for everyone using Gmail. Be sure to check back from time to time, as these policies may change. Please also refer to Google’s Terms of Service for more information. SPAM AND BULK MAIL Don’t use Gmail to distribute spam or unsolicited commercial mail. You are not allowed to use Gmail to send email in violation of the CAN-SPAM Act or other anti-spam laws; to send unauthorized email via open, third-party servers; or to distribute the email addresses of any person without their consent. You are not allowed to automate the Gmail interface, whether to send, delete, or filter emails, in a manner that misleads or deceives users. Please keep in mind that your definition of “unsolicited” or “unwanted” mail may differ from your email recipients’ perception. Exercise judgment when sending email to a large number of recipients, even if the recipients elected to receive emails from you in the past. When Gmail users mark emails as spam, it increases the likelihood that future messages you send will also be classified as spam by our anti-abuse systems. THE CREATION AND USE OF MULTIPLE GMAIL ACCOUNTS Don’t create or use multiple accounts to abuse Google policies, bypass Gmail account limitations, circumvent filters, or otherwise subvert restrictions placed on your account. (For example, if you’ve been blocked by another user or have had your Gmail account disabled due to abuse, don’t create a replacement account that engages in similar activity.) You’re also not allowed to create Gmail accounts by automated means or buy, sell, trade, or re-sell Gmail accounts to others. MALWARE Don’t use Gmail to transmit viruses, malware, worms, defects, Trojan horses, corrupted files, or any other items of a destructive or deceptive nature. In addition, don’t distribute content that harms or interferes with the operation of networks, servers, or other infrastructure belonging to Google or others. FRAUD, PHISHING, AND OTHER DECEPTIVE PRACTICES You may not access another user’s Gmail account without their explicit permission. Don’t use Gmail to trick, mislead, or deceive other users into sharing information under false pretenses. Don’t phish for users’ data such as login information, passwords, financial details, or government identification numbers, or use Gmail as part of a scheme to defraud others. CHILD SAFETY Google has a zero-tolerance policy against child sexual abuse imagery. If we become aware of such content, we will report it to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children as required by law. We may also take disciplinary action, including termination, against the Gmail accounts of those involved. COPYRIGHT Respect copyright laws. Don’t infringe on the intellectual property rights of others, including patent, trademark, trade secret, or other proprietary rights. You are also not allowed to encourage or induce others to violate intellectual property rights. You can report copyright infringement to Google by using this form. HARASSMENT Don’t use Gmail to harass, intimidate or threaten others. Anyone found to be using Gmail for these purposes may have their account disabled. ILLEGAL ACTIVITY Keep it legal. Don’t use Gmail to promote, organize, or engage in unlawful activities. POLICY ENFORCEMENT You can report abuse by using this form. Google may disable accounts that are found to be in violation of these policies. If your account is disabled, and you believe it was a mistake, please follow the instructions on this page.
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