Mailing lists: single or double opt-in?

[iamsam]

Howdy, folks. I'm looking to start using mailing lists for marketing — I've heard people say that the money is in the list. My question is regarding opt-in method. Which is more effective, a single opt-in list or double opt-in? Are there any regulations I need to be aware of before starting on an mailing list campaign?

[Jenny Walker]

Single opt-in? Double opt-in? Looks like I might doing something wrong with my mailing list because I don't even know what those terms mean. :( It's just a small list, though, and I'm not really selling anything.

[Spooky]

Jenny, a double opt-in mailing list is one that sends you an email for you to confirm your subscription before actually signing you up. A single opt-in mailing doesn't bother to send you a confirmation email, it just lists you as soon as you enter your email.