Obtaining consent for electronic delivery of compliance information
A method and related system obtains consent from an individual for computer-aided delivery of compliance information. Initially, a computer-readable data storage device is provided to the individual. The device stores the compliance information and computer-executable instructions. By inserting the device into a computer, the instructions are executed and the individual is prompted by the computer to consent to the computer-aided delivery of additional compliance information. Once consent is indicated, it is communicated from the individual's computer to another computer such as a server over, for example, a modem connection. Having secured the individual's consent, the additional compliance information can be delivered to the individual's computer as, for example, a file attachment to an email message.
1 . A system for obtaining consent comprising:
a sending unit programmed to send a computer readable message to a computer, the message indicating the availability of information in electronic form; and
a determining unit programmed to determine a user's level of consent to receive information in electronic form.
2 . The system of claim 1 wherein the computer readable message is sent over a computer communications link.
3 . The system of claim 1 further comprising an information providing unit programmed to, when the level of consent is deemed to be affirmative, enable the delivery of information in electronic form.
4 . The system of claim 3 wherein enabling the delivery of information in electronic form comprises sending the information.
5 . The system of claim 3 wherein enabling the delivery of information in electronic form comprises providing instructions for obtaining the information.
6 . The system of claim 3 wherein enabling the delivery of information in electronic form comprises providing an address on the World Wide Web where the information is located.
7 . The system of claim 3 wherein the delivery of information in electronic form is enabled for delivery to the user.
8 . The system of claim 1 wherein the level of consent is determined by an affirmative action from the user.
9 . The system of any of claims 1 - 8 wherein the information is sensitive information.
10 . The system of claim 9 wherein the information is compliance information.
11 . The system of claim 1 further comprising a storage unit programmed to store a record of consent from a user to receive information in electronic form.