How can you block junk mail

The never-ending battle against junk mail! Here are some ways to block junk mail:

  1. National Do Not Mail List: Register your name and address on the National Do Not Mail List, a free service provided by the Direct Marketing Association (DMA). This won't eliminate all junk mail, but it can reduce the amount you receive.
  2. Opt-out online: Many companies allow you to opt-out of receiving mailings online. Look for a "unsubscribe" or "opt-out" link on the company's website or in their email newsletters.
  3. Contact the sender: If you receive junk mail from a specific company, contact them directly to request that they remove your name from their mailing list. You can usually find a contact email or phone number on the mailing label.
  4. Use a mail-blocking service: Services like 41pounds.co.uk (UK) or Catalog Choice (US) allow you to opt-out of receiving mailings from specific companies or categories of mail (e.g., credit offers, catalogs).
  5. Use a postal service filter: Some postal services, like the US Postal Service, offer filters that can help reduce junk mail. For example, you can request that your mail be sorted separately from junk mail.
  6. Use a mail-blocking app: Apps like MailBlock (US) or Junk Mail Blocker (UK) can help you identify and block junk mail at the mailbox level.
  7. Use a paperless billing service: Consider switching to paperless billing for your bills and statements. This can reduce the amount of junk mail you receive.
  8. Use a junk mail filter: Some email clients, like Microsoft Outlook, offer junk mail filters that can help reduce the amount of spam you receive.
  9. Report junk mail to the DMA: If you receive junk mail that is illegal or harassing, report it to the Direct Marketing Association (DMA) or your local consumer protection agency.
  10. Consider a mail-blocking device: Devices like the MailGuard (US) or the Junk Mail Blocker (UK) can physically block junk mail from entering your mailbox.

Remember, while these methods can help reduce junk mail, they may not eliminate it entirely.