B2B cold email in Germany carries genuine GDPR compliance risks, with recipients able to file complaints that may result in fines. While some marketers continue cold outreach despite the risks (with volumes like 20K emails per month reported), complaints are common and regulatory action is possible. B2B outreach may potentially fall under "Legitimate Interest" provisions if the product is directly relevant to the recipient's job role, but this doesn't eliminate compliance risks. Many consider potential fines an acceptable business cost, though this approach carries legal and reputational risks.
February 2026