System and method to control sending of unsolicited communications relating to a plurality of listings in a network-based commerce facility
US6748422B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 17, 2001 |
| Grant date | Jun 8, 2004 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 8, 2022 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH04L63/20
- WIPO fieldIT methods for management
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A system and method to control sending of unsolicited communications over a network is provided. Typically, the network is the Internet and the system defines a SPAM prevention tool for users of an on-line service, such as an on-line bidding service. Users may contact an intended recipient with a contact form, which is forwarded to the recipient's e-mail address by an on-line service provider. A link accessible from a Web site allows recipients of unsolicited e-mail to complain to the on-line service provider. Sanctions are implemented against the sender of unsolicited e-mail based on the frequency of complaints. When the complaint level against a sender reaches a certain threshold, the sender is unable to use the contact form for a predetermined time period.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.