[jlokier]

It probably is illegal under the GDPR and perhaps a future US personal data law. Take a look at what WilliamEdward wrote in a child comment:

> I went to the site myself and filled in some checkboxes. Added my email and it simply says i'm on a list and nothing else happens.

Under GDPR, your email is personal data (PII) and taking it from you under false pretences, to use for a purpose you were not informed about and did not consent to, is against the law.

Of course nobody is likely to sue over it.