The UK has made spam a criminal offence to try to stop the flood of unsolicited messages.
Under the new law, spammers could be fined £5,000 in a magistrates court or an unlimited penalty from a jury.
But they would not be sent to jail, according to the new measures introduced by Communications Minister Stephen Timms.
Spam has become the bane of internet users, with junk messages making up more than half of all e-mails sent.
"It"s crucial that people feel safe and have confidence in utilising electronic communication technologies," said Mr Timms.
"These regulations will help combat the global nuisance of unsolicited e-mails and texts by enshrining in law rights that give consumers more say over who can use their personal details. "