Legal Question in Technology Law in Michigan

internet panhandling

is there any laws that will not allow someone to go on the internet and ask for people to donate money to any cause. even if that cause is for personal gain. for example can a person send out thousands of emails and ask people to donate one dollar so this person can buy themselves something. example two lets say someone wanted to buy a new car but was to poor to do so can he/she go on the internet and ask for help from perfect strangers, without having to promise them something in return for their donations.


Asked on 6/17/04, 12:36 am

1 Answer from Attorneys

Regina Mullen Legal Data Services, PLC

Re: internet panhandling

This is classic spam and you can do it, but be prepared to have at least one person report you. Panhandling IS done, but it's done with some sense of style, not like a beggar on the street. You set up a proper web site and advertise,--but not by sending spam, but by visiting websites and letting people you already know spread the word for you. Anything else is spam and in many states will subject you to a lot more trouble than it's worth. Many sites have PayPal donate buttons on them, and you can certainly charge people to participate, in say, a forum, which can cost nothing to set up.

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Answered on 6/17/04, 8:18 am


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