24th January 2000
Even the most strong willed can't resist passing along interesting stuff to their friends and family members via e-mail. Yes, even I have blasted off a few frivolous messages now and again. If it's to one or two people I know (and if we all know one other), I usually enter my name in the 'To' field and every other address in the 'CC' field (Carbon Copy). When I'm mailing multiple users (virtual strangers to one another), I use the 'BCC' option (Blind Carbon Copy). This is a GOOD habit for you to develop. The message will still be delivered to every intended recipient, but their e-mail address won't be shared with everyone else. Do you want people to respect YOUR privacy? Respect theirs; use the BCC option. Not only is it polite, but it reduces clutter.