Over the years, Spam emails and phishing attacks have grown at a skyrocketing rate and can cost you a fortune. All of us have experienced Spam email, and we keep getting them regularly. Being able to identify spam emails and understanding their implications is quite crucial to ensure a safe working environment. Email spamming and phishing emails are widely used by cybercriminals to victimise innocent users and steal their confidential information or money.
What is Email Spamming? How Does It Work?
Email spamming is an automated task of sending bulk and junk mail to millions of users and aims at directing users to malware sites. Spam mail usually contains an infected link, executable file attachment, or a malicious script. These emails look completely harmless and appear to come from a well-known source like banks, pharmacy, reputed government organizations etc. If any user clicks on the embedded link or tries to open the attachment, they get redirected to an official-looking website where the user is supposed to sign up and log in. Cybercriminals use such information for carrying out all their immoral activities like stealing money, spreading virus’s etc.
How to Identify Spam Emails?
- Don’t Trust the Book Blindly by Its Cover
The primary purpose of a phishing email is to affect people worldwide by masquerading themselves as legitimate and genuine emails. What is important to remember here is DO NOT open any email that comes to your inbox just because its sources look similar to a reliable name. Check it’s economic thoroughly, including the email address and display name before you decide to open it.
- Look Out for Spelling Errors
Brands are highly serious about email marketing, and so are digital thieves about using emails for corrupt activities. Emails coming from an official source will never have any grammatical errors, oddly framed sentences, or spelling mistakes.
- See, But Do Not Click
If the email that you have received contains any link, hover your mouse on it to check its authenticity. If it appears fishy to you do not click on it; you may alternatively also copy the link and check it in a separate browser. Avoid clicking on all unfamiliar links and attachments.
- Don’t Disclose Your Personal Information
Trusted brands, government organizations, banks, and e-commerce sites will never ask for your confidential details in an email. Stay vigilant to ensure online security.
- Never Click on Embedded Attachments
Including strange attachments is another way to fool people. These attachments and files are mostly infected with malicious malware. It is one of the most widely used phishing methods and has affected millions of users worldwide by infecting their PC and stealing their personal information.
- Consider Checking the Signature
A mail from a legitimate source will always have a well-detailed signature, including necessary details about the signer. All such information is usually missing in spoofing emails. All trusted brands, banks, and government organizations will always give contact details, including an official email and contact number, which is missing in spam mails.
- Still Having Doubts? Contact Your IT Support
If you are still uncertain about whether an email is spam or not get your IT support team involved, they will be able to take all necessary steps to remove the threat and keep your business safe.