In Practice: Ombuds Dilemma #10 - CC and BCC: Why Me as an Addressee?

Dear In Practice,

I’m confused about what to do when visitors copy or blind copy me on emails without warning or explanation. I respect visitor self-determination, and I typically avoid intervening absent an explicit agreement with the visitor about why and how I would do so.

Sometimes, it’s clear to me why I’m included in an email: for information, awareness, or as follow-up after I’ve been involved. Other times, it’s completely unclear. Some visitors copy me but make no mention of my role; others bcc me without any explanation as to why I’ve been included; and there have even been instances in which I’ve been cc:’d or bcc:’d by people I’ve never met.

I’m always unsure how to respond. Should I reply to the message? Should I reach out to the individual or wait for them to contact me directly? Should I engage with others cc’d in the message or do nothing unless I’m explicitly asked?

I want to honor the principles of voluntariness and confidentiality, and I also want to be accessible, responsive, and effective. How can I balance these considerations – and what should I do – in situations where contact is indirect?

We invite you to respond to this dilemma with your insights, perspective, and guidance. Responses - which must be under 250 words - can be submitted by email to [email protected]. Please provide your submission by Monday, November 10th for consideration. Submissions may be edited for length and clarity. In our next column, we will share a sampling of your responses and again provide a space for public comment and discussion.