E-Mail Users Overwhelmed With Spam

New Study by Russell Research Indicates That the Average Online Consumer Receives Over 200 Spam Emails per Week

New York, NY, November 12, 2003 -- A recent study of 1,227 online consumers conducted by Russell Research, a national research firm, indicates that the average online consumer receives 226 spam e-mails per week.

In response to this volume of unwanted emails, 9 out of 10 respondents indicate that they would sign up for a National Do Not Spam Registry if available. The results of this research clearly indicate," summarizes Russell Research partner John De Biasio, that consumers are frustrated by the amount of spam they receive and would take any necessary measures to reduce the volume."

Despite the enthusiasm expressed for a National Do Not Spam Registry, only 1 out of 5 respondents believe that the registry would be extremely or very effective at eliminating spam.

Methodology

The study was conducted online from October 24 -- 27, 2003, among 1,227 online adults across the United States. Figures for gender, age, and geography were weighted where necessary to match their actual proportions in the population.

In theory, with probability samples of this size, one could say with 95 percent certainty that the results have a statistical precision of plus or minus 3.1 percentage points of what they would be if the entire adult population had been polled with complete accuracy. In addition to sampling error, question wording and practical difficulties in conducting surveys can introduce error or bias into the findings of public opinion polls. This online survey is not a probability sample.

About Russell Research, Inc.

Founded in 1946, Russell Research is one of the pioneer firms in the market research industry. Today, Russell Research is among the industrys top custom research firms, with a seasoned staff of strategically-driven research professionals providing expertise and service for a wide range of customer and business product categories. Russell Researchs diverse group of clients include Fortune 1000 companies as well as mid-size and smaller enterprises, government agencies, advertising agencies, consultancies, and public relations firms.

Media Information:

Elizabeth Wiggins
Russell Research, Inc.
(212) 246-4343
elizabeth.wiggins@russellresearch.com

Survey Question Wording And Responses
   * Note: Some percentages may not add to 100 due to rounding

If it became available, would you sign up for a National Do Not Spam Registry?

Yes   89%
No   11%
   

How effective do you believe a National Do Not Spam Registry would be in preventing spam?

Extremely Effective   5%
Very Effective   14%
Somewhat Effective   46%
Not Very Effective   18%
Not At All Effective   5%
Dont Know   13%

How many spam e-mails do you receive in an average week?

Mean:   226