Email Security Guidelines
Never open email attachments or click on links from unknown or suspicious sources. Those can lead to phishing websites or contain malware. Verify the sender’s identity before interacting with any content.
Use separate email accounts for different purposes. For example, have one for personal use, one for work, and another for subscriptions and less critical interactions. That separates the risk involved with each account.
Turn on email encryption for sensitive messages. That ensures only the recipient can read the email content, protecting it from interception.
Be cautious with emails that request personal information. Scammers often use urgency or familiarity to trick people into making mistakes. Always double-check the email address and consider contacting the company directly.
Regularly review and clean your email subscriptions. Unwanted newsletters and updates can clutter your inbox, making it harder to spot malicious emails. Use features like spam filters to automate this process.
Consider using a separate email address when signing up for online services. That keeps your primary inbox cleaner and reduces the likelihood of receiving spam or phishing emails in your main email.
Always log out of your email account when using public or shared computers. If you forget, most email services offer options to log out remotely. Check the security settings for this feature.
Avoid using public Wi-Fi for checking email whenever possible. If you must, always ensure you are connected to a secure and trusted network. Using a VPN provides an extra layer of security.
Use strong and unique passwords for your email accounts. Password reuse makes it easier for hackers to gain access to multiple accounts. A password manager can help manage complex passwords.
Periodically review your email account’s security settings. Make adjustments to filters, two-factor authentication, and recovery options as needed. This proactive approach enhances overall email security.
Keep your email client software updated. Whether you’re using a web-based service or a standalone application, updates often include important security patches. Enable automatic updates if available.
Be aware of common phishing email indicators like poor grammar, unofficial email addresses, and generic greetings. These clues can help you identify potentially malicious emails.
Turn off the “auto-download” feature for email attachments. This prevents any malicious software in attachments from automatically running when you open an email. Most email clients allow you to do this in the settings.
Limit the personal information you share in emails. Hackers can use this information for social engineering attacks, potentially tricking you or others into revealing sensitive data. Always be cautious with the information you disclose electronically.
Enable notification alerts for unusual login activities on your email accounts. This feature warns you if your email is accessed from an unfamiliar location or device, allowing you to take immediate action.
Email is a common entry point for cyber threats but also an essential communication tool. These email tech tips are designed to help you use email securely, protecting both your personal and professional information.
