Britons blind to free email scanning

FOUR OUT OF TEN free email service users say they did not know that it is common practice at many large email providers to scan private emails for keywords that are then linked to targeted advertising.

How else users thought that the sponsored ad just happened to relate, albeit tangentially, to the content of the message is a little beyond us, but that's the finding of a survey by 'we don't scan your emails' email service GMX.

A third of those surveyed blustered that they should be able opt out of such scanning should they wish, but then spluttered on their self-righteousness when told that would probably lead to them having to pay for the service.

"It is understandable that many Britons are wary about their private emails being scanned for advertising reasons," said GMX's managing director, Eva Heil.

After stressing that GMX does not partake in this filthy practice, Heil added that users of other providers should "at least informed if this is done by their email service."

The survey also found that Britons are heavily reliant on their free email services, with the average Briton using two separate personal accounts from these providers. µ